Police give update on Canal Street chemical incident

One man, aged 39, remains in custody following the incident on suspicion of possession of explosive materials.

The incident occurred yesterday in Canal Street, Manchester, when officers responded to reports of a strong smell emanating from a hotel room at around 10.45am.

(Image: Richard Duggan)

No injuries were reported in relation to the incident, and there is not thought to be any wider risk to the public.

Police say they working to establish the full circumstances of the incident but it is not currently being treated as terror-related.

Superintendent Stephen Wiggins, from GMP’s City of Manchester team, said: “We fully appreciate the concerns and worries that people have had with regards to yesterday’s arrest, and I want to make it clear that our work is continuing at pace to establish the full circumstances of the incident. We will be in a position to share this information once we have it.

“We responded immediately to this incident and worked quickly and efficiently to ensure that any hazardous materials were thoroughly assessed and removed.

(Image: Richard Duggan)

“The safety of our communities across the city centre and within the Gay Village area are paramount, and we will continue to provide a strong policing presence over the coming days.

“If anyone has any concerns, I would urge them to speak to an officer.”

Following the incident, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service attended and assisted in assessing the material and ensuring it did not pose a risk to the local area. 

The man remains in custody at this time and will be further interviewed by investigators.

There is no wider risk to the public and no injuries were reported as part of yesterday’s investigation.

No further suspects are being sought by officers at this time.

A cordon on the street is no longer in place, but officers are still conducting work in the hotel room. The hotel remains open for guests