Shotgun found after police pursuit in South Manchester
Officer spotted what was believed to be a stolen black Audi A3 travelling down Fog Lane in Didsbury.
Last updated 24th Jan 2019
Police have recovered a shotgun and a stolen car after a pursuit in Fallowfield.
At around 9.20pm on Saturday 19th January, officers from GMP’s Specialist Operations Unit spotted what was believed to be a stolen black Audi S3 travelling at speed on Fog Lane.
A short pursuit ensued before the four-door saloon ran a red light and collided with two stationary vehicles.
As the occupants of the car ran from the vehicle, leaving it abandoned on Wilbraham Road, one of the men was seen in possession of a sawn-off shotgun.
A search of the area lasted for a number of hours with support from the police helicopter, firearms officers and dog unit, and enquiries to trace the occupants of the car are ongoing.
A shotgun – believed to be the one seen earlier on – has been recovered from a garden on Wilbraham Road and will be undergoing forensic testing.
The car was reported stolen following a burglary in the Irlam area on Friday (18 January) and, before being returned to the owner, will be examined for evidence.
Detective Chief Inspector John Harris of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said: “In these set of circumstances, the quick-thinking actions are really testament to the officers’ professionalism and determination to bring a stop to those intent on causing our communities harm.
“Today, we are able to say we’ve got one more firearm off our streets. That’s one more gun out of the hands of criminals, one more that cannot be used in any further senseless crime.
“With support from our specialist colleagues, we’ll continue in our fight to reduce gun crime across Greater Manchester and do our utmost to pursue those who carry weapons and cause the most fear.
“While analysis and evidential enquiries continue, I ask anyone who saw three men in the area of Wilbraham Road last night acting suspiciously or anyone who has information they think may help us, to get in touch.
“Often with incidents like this, your information is what helps us form our greatest intelligence.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6151 quoting reference number 2117 of 19/01/19 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.