Police issue update on raid in Bolton amid 'Hitler party' probe with Nazi memorabilia
As reported in The Bolton News yesterday, officers investigating reports that a group of people who celebrated Hitler's birthday with Nazi memorabilia at a pub in Royton last month raided addresses Rochdale, Bolton, Trafford, Stockport, and Southport yesterday morning.
One of those addresses included Addington Road in Deane.
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Officers said that following the recovery of a suspected grenade at a property in Bolton, the bomb squad were deployed.
The item was later declared safe, with officers reassuring people that there was no risk to the wider public.
In total nine people were arrested as part of yesterday morning's operation in Greater Manchester and Southport.
They have been arrested on suspicion of Section 18 Public Order Act offences, which includes allegedly displaying written material which is threatening, abusive or insulting, intended to stir up racial hatred.
Officers say they recovered imitation firearms, weapons including swords and a crossbow, and Nazi memorabilia and materials in the raids.
Police have been in contact with officers from the Counter Terrorism Policing North West (CTPNW) who have offered advice on some of the materials which have been seized.
Officers say that residents may see an increased presence of police officers in the community. They are there to assist with enquiries and offer reassurance to residents.
Assistant chief constable Steph Parker of Greater Manchester Police said: 'Due to the nature of the materials we [allegedly] recovered at the warrants today, we have liaised with colleagues at CTPNW. This is a matter of course, and it very much remains a GMP led investigation.
'It's important that all avenues are explored to establish the extent of the criminal offences which have been committed, and whilst our investigation is still in its early stages, we do not believe there to be a risk to the wider public.
'This group clearly has a deep fascination with ideas that we know are unsettling for communities across Greater Manchester. We must take action when concerns are raised, and where weapons are suspected, to ensure people are free to live without fear of intimidation or harm.
'Public safety is at the forefront of our investigation, and as always, we ask that you remain vigilant, and if you have any information or concerns, then to contact us.'
Residents on Addington Street said police were at the scene until into the evening. They described a huge presence on the street.
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