Arrest following reports of eight sexual assaults in Tameside

Officers from Greater Manchester Police have made an arrest following reports of several sexual assaults in the Tameside area.

The reports relate to eight incidents over a period of three days between Friday 8 July 2023 and Monday 10 July 2023. 

The first incident was on a tram heading towards Ashton under Lyne on the 8th, followed by an incident in a pub in Manchester on the 10th.

That same day, there were three further reports of separate incidents on public transport between Manchester and Ashton under Lyne, followed by reports of one on a road in Droylsden, and a further two on a footpath in the Ashton area.

Officers investigating the reports believe the incidents to be linked.

A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and remains in police custody for questioning while enquiries are ongoing.

Detective Sergeant Zoe Bannister, of GMP’s Tameside district, said: “These are highly concerning incidents and we are currently looking into the full circumstances. We always take a serious, zero-tolerance approach to reports of sexual assault and the investigation is continuing apace to ensure we know the facts of what has happened.

"We are continuing to support those involved and our priority is their wellbeing. GMP is committed to keeping our communities safe and I want anyone concerned to please contact their local neighbourhood officers. They are there to assist and will be able to discuss any queries you may have.

“I hope this arrest shows that we will never be complacent about these sorts of incidents – we will act quickly and are determined to keep the public safe."

If anyone has any information, they can contact police on 101.

You can also report information via www.gmp.police.uk or through the independent charity Crimestoppers - anonymously – on 0800 555 111.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.