Mayor vows those involved in disorder will face robust action
Dozens of people have been arrested after violent clashes in Manchester and Bolton
The Mayor of Greater Manchester has vowed to do everything he can to take robust action against those causing violence and chaos on our streets
Andy Burnham's speaking out after protests in Bolton, and Manchester City Centre this weekend.
So far 23 people have been arrested.
Officers made five arrests on Saturday and a further fourteen arrests on Sunday in relation to offences for being drunk and disorderly, possession of a weapon, assault, criminal damage, and violent disorder.
After disorder in Piccadilly Gardens, four more people have since been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody for questioning.
In a press conference yesterday evening Andy Burnham said: "We are a city region which has always allowed people to protest peacefully, that remains the case.
"But we will never allow people to come into our city,or into our towns and threaten the safety of other people,
"This isn't two teir policing we will take that approach where ever that criminality shows itself."
Meanwhile, Stephen Watson, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police said: “I want to thank the vast majority of law-abiding citizens of Greater Manchester who either stayed away from events over the weekend, or who took part by sharing their views in a way that did not break the law, but which upheld our democratic right to peaceful protest.
"However, it was clear that across all events, there were people of all political and cultural backgrounds who attended with the intent of causing trouble and breaking the law.
“There are consequences for inciting hate and causing damage, and those who have broken the law will be held accountable for their actions.
"Where arrests have been made, charges have been quickly sought and some offenders have already appeared before the courts and we expect to make further arrests. We have gathered extensive video evidence, collected testimonies, and our intelligence teams are working vigorously with support from the full force to identify further criminal behaviour and locate those responsible. Justice will be forthwith."