Oldham police car attack: man tasered and arrested under terror laws

Shortly before 10pm on Tuesday, an officer noticed a man in the car park at Oldham police station.

The man ran at the officer’s car and made threats to those inside it, a Greater Manchester police spokesman said.

A large cordon was put in place near the station amid concerns a vehicle parked nearby may have ‘suspicious’ items in it; however a search did not reveal anything.

A 31-year-old man was Tasered and arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, assault of a police officer, and being found on enclosed premises.

Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North West were made aware of the incident and have since further arrested the suspect on suspicion of Section 41 of the Terrorism Act.

Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, commander for the Oldham district, said: “Last night our officers showed immense bravery and quick-thinking by detaining a man so swiftly after threats were being made and a vehicle was attacked as it was about to go on patrol.

“Thankfully, despite being understandably shaken, the officers didn’t sustain any physical injuries and we are doing what we can to support them after this incident.

“Due to suspicions raised based on enquiries made so far, our colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing North West have subsequently arrested the suspect and are now questioning him under the Terrorism Act.

“While this will cause understandable - and shared - shock and concern in the community, I want to make it clear that there is nothing to so far suggest there is any wider threat to the public, and our officers will continue to be on the front line doing all we can to keep the streets of Oldham safe.

“As ever, anyone with suspicions or concerns should report it to us via their local neighbourhood police team, via our website, or via 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.”