On the afternoon of Wednesday, June 11, 2025, a significant disturbance unfolded on Lower Broughton Road in Salford, as between 50 and 60 youths gathered and engaged in serious disorder that escalated quickly, prompting a robust police response. The group used cars and wheelie bins to block off the road, setting at least one vehicle ablaze and damaging numerous others, including a police car.
The chaos began around 1:30 PM when the crowd, some masked and riding dirt bikes, launched projectiles at officers and wreaked havoc on the streets. Videos circulating on social media captured scenes of youths performing handbrake turns and groups clad in hoods and masks milling about, while emergency services arrived to contain the situation. Riot police and Tactical Aid Units were deployed, with officers reportedly stationed on every corner as tensions flared.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) described the event as "serious disorder," with reports of stolen vehicles, bricks thrown at officers, and multiple cars damaged or burnt out. One particularly striking image showed a car completely engulfed in flames next to a residential property, sending plumes of smoke into the sky. Another vehicle, a Fiat 500, was heavily vandalized, its windows smashed and bodywork dented.
Superintendent Marcus Noden, who oversaw the police response, emphasized that such behaviour would not be tolerated. He said, "We took robust and appropriate action," dispatching a large number of officers to the scene. A dispersal order was swiftly implemented, effective until 2 PM on Thursday, June 12, with officers remaining overnight as a precautionary measure to prevent further unrest.
During the disorder, the windscreen of a police vehicle was smashed, and a 16-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer. She remains in custody for questioning. Police confirmed that the group of youths largely dispersed following the dispersal order, with the area gradually calming as residents either left the streets or retreated indoors.
Local witnesses described the scene as "pretty intense," noting the strewn bricks and stones across the road and the heavy police presence. One resident remarked, "It's mad here, isn't it? It was barely twelve hours ago when it was peaceful here. Now it looks like this." The cleanup was ongoing at the time, with wrecked vehicles being removed and a burnt car left dumped in an estate behind Lower Broughton Road.
Addressing rampant speculation online, Superintendent Noden categorically denied any connection between the disorder and immigration. "We are aware of speculation online that this incident is linked to immigration, this is categorically incorrect," he stated firmly. He reassured the public that no ongoing incidents were occurring in the area, though tensions remained heightened and police had robust plans ready should further disturbances arise.
The police response included the deployment of motorcycle units, with at least one rider assisted off a bike and the vehicle seized. Tactical Aid Units, initially stationary, were observed circling the area as the situation deescalated. The nearby Lower Broughton Road was closed between Frederick Road and Great Cheetham Street West during the height of the disorder, according to traffic data.
Residents expressed mixed feelings in the aftermath, with some noting the abrupt shift from calm to chaos. Despite the disruption, many appreciated the police efforts to restore order. Superintendent Noden thanked the public for their patience and support during the incident, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in such challenging circumstances.
This event marks a troubling episode for Salford, reflecting broader concerns about youth disorder and community safety. The police's swift action and clear communication aimed to contain the situation and dispel misinformation, underscoring the complexities of managing urban unrest in the digital age.
As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant, prepared to respond to any further incidents while working to rebuild trust and security within the community.
