Oldham mill fire: two arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after four sets of remains found

Detectives investigating the deaths of four people following a fire at Bismark House Mill, in Bower Street in Oldham have arrested two people, it has been confirmed today.

Warrants were issued at two properties in the Oldham area this morning (18 August) and two people were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and drugs and organised crime offences.

A huge fire broke out in the old mill on 7 May, and in July, a contractor clearing the area called police after finding human remains.

A few days prior to that, four Vietnamese people were reported missing to GMP and it is now believed there were inside the mill when the fire broke out.

One set of remains has been identified as belonging to Uoc Van Nguyen, 31, from north Vietnam.

What have police said?

Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Davies, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “Our thoughts remain with the families in Vietnam. They are being fully updated and supported by specially-trained officers, as we try to find the answers we need and they deserve.

“These arrests are part of our enquiries to establish why Uoc and three other, currently unidentified, individuals were in the mill during the fire. We are making progress but our investigation is very much ongoing.

“Anyone with information which may assist us should contact Greater Manchester Police or Crimestoppers, anonymously.”

• Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 101 or international callers can contact GMP via +441618725050. Information can also be submitted in English or Vietnamese via the Major Incident Public Portal: Public Portal here.

Anyone who would like to remain anonymous can share information via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.