Two men have been arrested after a disturbing video circulated online appearing to show members of the Jewish community being sprayed with water from a vehicle in Farnworth.
The video, which has sparked widespread condemnation, appears to show occupants of a car deliberately targeting Jewish individuals. Police say the incident is being treated as a hate crime.
On Thursday 7 August 2025, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that two men, aged 26 and 36, were arrested in Farnworth on suspicion of racially aggravated common assault. Both suspects remain in custody for questioning.
As part of the ongoing investigation, officers have also seized a vehicle believed to have been used in the incident, along with a water pistol matching that seen in the footage.
GMP: “We Have Zero Tolerance for Hate Crime”
“We are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness and have acted swiftly to make arrests,” said Chief Inspector Simon Ashcroft of GMP’s Salford division.
“GMP has a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime in any form, and we are committed to ensuring our communities feel safe and supported.”
GMP said it continues to work closely with community partners, including the Community Security Trust (CST), to provide reassurance and gather information.
Appeal for Further Victims and Witnesses
Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are appealing for anyone targeted in similar incidents — or anyone who witnessed them — to come forward.
“We are aware from other footage that there may be further victims,” Chief Inspector Ashcroft added. “We urge anyone who believes they have been targeted to contact GMP or the CST.”
? How to Report Information
- Call 101 and quote the incident
- Use the GMP website: www.gmp.police.uk
- In an emergency, always dial 999
- Alternatively, contact the Community Security Trust at www.cst.org.uk