Suspected gun handed in as detectives carry out weapons search in Sale

A suspected firearm and ammunition was found in the Ashton-on-Mersey area and handed into police to be examined as part of the investigation

Detectives investigating a drive-by shooting in Sale have carried out a weapons search and have recovered a suspected firearm.

Officers were called to Hornbeam Close at around 6:15pm on Thursday 1 July to reports of a firearms discharge.

The incident is being treated as linked to a series of reported disturbances in the Sale West area and police in Trafford are prioritising the dispute as part of their increase in patrols over the coming days.

Officers from Trafford's Operation Challenger Team also conducted a proactive weapons search in the Sale West area today.

Detective Sergeant Stuart Rostron, of Trafford's Operation Challenger Team, said: "A member of the public handed in the suspected gun and it will now be examined to see if it is a live weapon and linked to any firearm discharge incidents.

"Officers have also carried out a proactive search as part of the response to recent incidents in the area but no weapons were found in the search.

"Several investigations are ongoing and a police presence will remain in the area.

"We are still asking the public for information that can be reported by contacting police on 0161 856 7544 quoting incident 2483 of 01/07/21."

Reports can also be made via our online live web chat function at www.gmp.police.uk.

Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.