Full Breakdown
Police Raid Uncovers Firearm and Ammunition at Closed Irlam Nursery
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Warrant Execution, Seizure and Arrests
On the evening of October 7, officers from Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Organised Crime Group, supported by Tactical Aid and Tactical Vehicle Intercept units, executed a warrant at the former Mini Fingers Day Nursery on Liverpool Road in Irlam, Salford. Acting on intelligence, they entered the premises at approximately 8:30 p.m., recovered a firearm and a “substantial quantity” of ammunition, and arrested two men—one in his 50s and another in his 30s—on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A cocaine and Class B cannabis. The suspects remain in police custody for questioning.
Background & Context: Nursery Closure Over Rat Infestation
The nursery had been ordered to close earlier in the week after Salford Council’s environmental health department issued a prohibition order on October 2 because inspectors found vermin and a collapsed drain beneath the baby room. Parents were notified that the nursery would cease operations permanently on October 5, with the owner citing “recent events” and financial strain. Greater Manchester Police has stated that the firearm investigation is “entirely unrelated” to the closure.
Data & Statistics
- October 2 – Prohibition order issued due to vermin and infrastructure issues.
- October 5 – Closure date communicated to parents.
- October 7 (?8:30 p.m.) – Police raid conducted; firearm and ammunition seized.
- Ages of suspects – one man in his 50s, one man in his 30s.
- Offences alleged – conspiracy to supply Class A cocaine and Class B cannabis.
- Evidence recovered – one firearm, “substantial quantity” of ammunition (exact type and amount not disclosed).
Official Statements & Responses
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the operation was unrelated to the nursery’s environmental health issues and emphasized the significance of removing the weapon from public circulation. He also thanked the Tactical Aid Unit and Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit for their support.
Verbatim Quotes
“This operation demonstrates our continued commitment to disrupting serious organised crime and removing dangerous weapons from our streets. Acting on intelligence, officers executed a warrant at a business premises in Irlam, where a firearm and a substantial quantity of ammunition were recovered. View 5 Images Police carry what appears to be a gun from the building (Image: MEN)” — Detective Inspector Rich McCorry
Timeline
- October 2 – Prohibition order issued after vermin discovery.
- October 5 – Nursery closure communicated to parents.
- October 7 (?8:30 p.m.) – Warrant executed; firearm and ammunition recovered; two arrests made.
- October 8 – Police presence observed; gun seen being moved in an evidence bag.
- October 9 (scheduled) – Ongoing police enquiries; scene remains secured.
What’s Next
Greater Manchester Police has indicated that the investigation remains active, with the crime scene still secured as of October 9. No further public statements have been scheduled, and the two suspects will continue to be questioned while the force determines any additional charges.