Horror as ‘gun pointed at crowd’ & crossbow seized near UK city centre with 30 armed cops scrambled – as 7 arrested

A GUN was pointed at a crowd and a crossbow recovered as 30 armed cops descended on a city centre last night.

Officers swarmed Romney Street in Salford, Greater Manchester, at about 9.30pm on Monday.

They were called to reports of a gun being brandished in the Kersal area.

Horror footage appeared to show a man on a bike holding a firearm, Manchester Evening News reported.

Witnesses described “at least 30” armed cops scrambling to the serious incident.

The officers were said to have arrested a suspect in the middle of the road.

A huge cordon remains in place this morning and the nearby area was evacuated.

Greater Manchester Police said a 54-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

Six teenagers, aged 16-18, were also arrested on suspicion of affray, GMP added.

Police issued a 24-hour dispersal order for Cheetham Street West, Littleton Road, Poppy Lane, Langley Road South and Lissadel Street.

Detective Superintendent Simon Moyles said in a statement: “Our frontline officer’s rapid response to a concerning report prevented what could have been a dangerous incident from occurring.

“There was a large group of youths gathering in the area, and officers intervened in fights and helped several young people return home safely.

“Thankfully, no one at the scene required medical treatment.

“Our investigation is moving at a pace; we have arrested seven people and taken a weapon off the streets while enquiries are ongoing.

“A police presence will remain in the area as we conduct enquiries and gather evidence.

“Neighbourhood officers will be patrolling around to provide reassurance to the local community.”

Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting log 3631 – 14/04/2025 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.