Five teens arrested after bonfire night attacks on emergency workers in Blackburn
The events have been described as "utterly disgraceful"
Five teenagers have been arrested in connection with attacks on emergency workers in Blackburn on Bonfire Night.
Police launched an investigation after crews were targeted with fireworks and other missiles when responding to hoax calls on the 5th of November.
Four boys and a girl all between the ages of 14 and sixteen are currently in custody for questioning on suspicion of affray in connection with one of those incidents on Lambeth Street, Blackburn.
In a statement on social media, Blackburn with Darwen police said:
"We launched our investigation following the attacks on emergency services crews at the weekend of November 5th.
"In areas of Blackburn and Burnley emergency services crews from the fire service, ambulance and police received a number of hoax calls only to be attacked with fireworks and other missiles.
"A number of police vehicles were also damaged. It is only good fortune that no-one was injured during the incidents.
"Enquiries will continue to identify anyone else suspected of being involved."
Chief Supt Mark Winstanley, of East Lancashire Police, said: “The events of bonfire night were utterly disgraceful and showed a complete disregard for the police and our emergency service colleagues.
“Not only did the actions of this small minority of people put the safety of people at risk but they diverted resources from attended genuine emergency calls.
“Police and other blue light services go out of their way every day to keep communities safe and to be treated in this way was simply unacceptable.
“We promised that we would be investigating in a bid to identify those individuals responsible and today’s arrests form part of those enquiries, which are very much ongoing.
“We are aware that the majority of the community were appalled by the events and we are grateful for their support following the incidents on that night
“I would continue to appeal to anyone who can help to contact us, in particular if they have any mobile phone footage, CCTV or ring doorbell footage which could assist.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 1053 of November 5th.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.