A community litter pick in Salford turned into a scene of alarm this Saturday afternoon when a suspicious package was discovered, prompting a significant police response. Around 30 volunteers were participating in the clean-up, organised by community leader Brian Westley, at St Stephen’s Gardens when the incident occurred at approximately 12.30pm.

The group was working on Frederick Street, located just off Trinity Way and not far from Manchester city centre, when a member of the team came across the peculiar package. Initially mistaken for a heavy bottle, the volunteers were taken aback upon closer inspection, revealing what appeared to be a loaded firearm. This revelation led them to immediately contact law enforcement.

Thomas Westley, son of the event’s organiser, described the moment of discovery, stating, “We thought it was a heavy bottle but when we unwrapped it, we noticed a gun shape and called the police.” Following the report, a substantial number of police vehicles arrived on the scene, establishing a cordon around the area to secure the location. Thomas further noted that police informed them that the object was believed to be a revolver containing six bullets.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed, “At around 12.20pm this afternoon (Saturday 15 March), we were called to reports of suspected weapons being found on Frederick Street in Salford. A scene remains in place whilst we make our enquiries. There is not thought to be a risk to the wider public at this time.” Forensic teams are currently investigating the scene following the alarming discovery.

As the police cordon remains in effect, community members are left processing the shock of the incident that transformed what was intended to be a simple neighbourhood clean-up into a situation necessitating a serious police operation. The investigation continues as authorities work to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the firearm’s presence in the area.

Source: Noah Wire Services