A man suspected of releasing gas on Metrolink trams between Bury and Victoria has been arrested, following multiple reports of passengers feeling dizzy and unwell. The incidents, which occurred last Thursday and Saturday, prompted an immediate investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
The suspect, a man in his 30s, was taken into custody on suspicion of possessing a noxious substance with intent to injure. He remains in police custody for questioning as officers work to gather evidence and piece together the events that left passengers alarmed.
Reports of Suspicious Activity on Trams
According to GMP, several passengers reported discomfort, dizziness, and lightheadedness after encountering a man who allegedly released gas on the trams. Witnesses reported seeing a man wearing a blue face mask and an industrial gas mask over the top, which immediately raised concerns.
Passengers claimed they heard a hissing noise before detecting a strong smell of gas. While no serious injuries have been reported, many individuals felt unwell and raised their concerns with authorities.
One passenger who experienced the incident firsthand said:
“I was sat on the tram and a guy got on at Queen’s Road wearing a blue face mask with an industrial gas mask over the top of that. There was a hissing noise and people started looking around. And then we smelt gas, it was really strong. One girl who was near him got up and moved away from him. People looked really concerned.”
The passenger continued, “I had a headache and felt dizzy and a bit sick. When the tram got to Abraham Moss, myself and a few other people got off and I reported it to the police.”
Reports of similar experiences have surfaced on social media, with passengers voicing their concerns and urging others to be cautious.
Police Investigation Underway
Images shared with the Manchester Evening News (M.E.N.) show firefighters, paramedics, and police officers attending the scene on Crumpsall Lane, outside Crumpsall Metrolink stop on Saturday night.
The GMP has stated that there is no wider threat to the public, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the nature of the gas released and the motivations behind the act.
Detective Chief Inspector Paddy Connell from GMP’s City of Manchester Division assured the public that they are making progress with the investigation.
“We fully appreciate that incidents of this nature can cause concern in our communities, but I want to reassure the public that we do not believe there is any wider threat present.”
He continued, “We have now secured the arrest of a man and are working hard to establish the full circumstances of the events that have been reported over recent days.”
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behavior or has information relevant to the investigation to come forward.
Transport for Greater Manchester’s Response
A spokesperson for Transport for Greater Manchester previously acknowledged the incidents and confirmed that they are cooperating with GMP’s investigation. They emphasized that passenger safety remains a core priority and reassured the public that Metrolink services are operating as usual.
“We are aware of these incidents on Metrolink and are assisting GMP with their enquiries at this time. The safety of our passengers and staff is a core priority – everyone has the right to feel safe and be safe across the Bee Network.”
The spokesperson added, “Through the TravelSafe partnership our close working relationship with GMP is of vital importance, and we’ll keep working together to continuously improve safety across the network.”
Public Assistance and Appeal for Information
GMP has asked anyone with information or footage related to the incidents to contact them via 101 or the online Live Chat service. Alternatively, individuals can provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
As the investigation continues, passengers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
