Fireworks chaos and arrests as Salford police tackle Bonfire Night disorder

GMP confirms arrests, firework seizures and ongoing investigations after Bonfire Night surge in anti-social behaviour across Salford and Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester Police have revealed a significant crackdown on Bonfire Night disorder, with officers in Salford responding to multiple reports of fireworks-related anti-social behaviour and disorder over the Halloween weekend.

As part of Operation Treacle, which ran from late October through 5 November, more than 500 officers were deployed across Greater Manchester. In total, 798 incidents were recorded, with 350 fireworks-related incidents logged on Bonfire Night alone, a sharp rise from 203 the previous year.

In Salford, Section 60 dispersal powers were authorised in key areas including Lower Broughton and Little Hulton, where previous years have seen increased reports of nuisance behaviour. The emergency powers allowed officers to stop individuals and seize fireworks or other potentially dangerous items.

Across the operation, GMP made 27 arrests and seized four weapons, while 143 fireworks were confiscated from individuals putting themselves and others at risk.

Neighbourhood teams in Salford were kept busy responding to bonfires built dangerously close to residential areas. In one case, officers were called to Langworthy Park, where young people were reportedly launching fireworks at passing vehicles. The items were seized, and a group of teenagers were issued strong warnings.

Police are also investigating an incident in Eccles where a fire was deliberately started near a community centre, damaging benches and surrounding grassland. CCTV is being reviewed and witnesses are urged to come forward.

Emergency call demand was significantly higher this year, with 2,093 999 calls received across the region on 5 November, up from 1,875 in 2024. Non-emergency 101 calls rose slightly to 2,178, but average call answer times improved, dropping from 75 seconds to just 47.

Despite the surge, the number of anti-social behaviour reports was slightly lower than last year. GMP attributed this to increased patrol visibility and close partnership working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Chief Superintendent John-Paul Ruffle, Head of GMP’s Prevention Branch, said:

“We know Bonfire Night brings additional pressures for our officers, but we were well-prepared to respond quickly.

“The majority of people in Salford celebrated responsibly, but a small number still chose to behave recklessly. Fireworks were thrown at officers in one instance, and while no one was hurt, this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We’ve got ongoing investigations in several areas, including Salford, and we’ll be paying visits to individuals in the coming days.”

He added:

“Anti-social behaviour causes real disruption for residents. Our message is clear, we are here year-round to keep Salford’s communities safe and will always respond robustly when the law is broken.”

Anyone with information about Bonfire Night incidents is encouraged to contact police on 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.