Four people arrested after reports of drivers being threatened by crossbow

A crossbow was recovered (File Pic)

Three men in their 20s and a woman aged 22 have been arrested on suspicious of possessing an offensive weapon.

Yesterday morning (11 December 2025) at 9:21am, Police received reports of a group in the Norley Hall Avenue area of Wigan allegedly handling a crossbow and shouting at passing vehicles.

Officers were on scene within eight minutes and began urgent enquiries to locate those involved.

Four individuals were subsequently detained at a nearby address by Greater Manchester Police's Specialist Operations Unit, and a crossbow was recovered.

A spokesperson for GMP said: "We understand this incident may have caused concern locally, but we want to reassure the community that the crossbow was not discharged, and no injuries have been reported."

The suspects were taken to custody and remain there for further questioning.

As a precaution, several schools in the local area briefly went into lockdown. There was no direct threat to any pupil or school, the schools have now been re-opened.

Neighbourhood Inspector Sam Davies said: “This was an isolated incident that poses no ongoing risk to the community.

"We understand this caused concern, officers will remain visible in the area and visit affected schools today to provide reassurance.

"Anyone with further information or concerns is encouraged to speak to our officers or contact us directly."

If you have any information, you can contact GMP on 101, Live Chat or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.