A 16-year-old boy has been apprehended by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on suspicion of robbery and sexual assault following a series of alarming incidents early on Friday morning.

At approximately 06:00 a man in his 50s was in Queen’s Park when he was confronted by the teenage suspect. The boy allegedly demanded money and car keys from the victim. Fortunately, the man managed to escape and promptly contacted authorities

Around 15 minutes later, two women were running in the same park. Tragically, one of the women was sexually assaulted, dragged during the incident. Her friend bravely attempted to intervene but was also assaulted.

In a separate incident on Westgate, another woman was approached by the same individual. However, her sudden reaction startled the boy, prompting him to flee the scene.

Officers swiftly mustered, saturating the area with patrols. The suspect was apprehended on Ducie Avenue shortly thereafter. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Detective Inspector Carla Deighton, head of GMP’s Neighbourhood Crime Team, expressed concern for the victims and underscored the seriousness of such crimes. She urged any witnesses to come forward by calling 101 and referencing log number 528 from June 21, 2024. Additionally, she encouraged anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage to assist in the inquiry.