Oldham police charge five boys in connection with vicious assault

The attack happened on Featherstall Road North on June 21 this year and a video that was spread online weeks later showed the young man being violently assaulted by in an alleyway near the Tesco supermarket.

An emergency meeting was held in July by leaders in the community after a spate of attempted vigilante attacks took place on some businesses and homes which Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said appeared to be in retaliation for the assault of the victim.

Police also held a press conference to quell tensions around the assault while their investigation continued after several incidents of disorder were reported.

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Five boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons as they are under the age of 18, have now been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

A woman has also been eliminated as a potential suspect and has been helping officers with their investigation.

The announcement comes as residents were becoming concerned about what they perceived to be inaction from police in making arrests.

Oldham's Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen. (Image: Newsquest)

Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “This was a particularly vicious attack and I hope the charges today (Friday) go some way to reassure the community of Oldham that Greater Manchester Police will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.

“A young male was violently assaulted, and it understandably upset and disturbed many here in Oldham.

"Safety remains our number one priority and we will continue to work towards making Oldham a safer place to live and work together.

“I would like to reassure the people in Oldham that our investigation is progressing at a rapid pace and our aim above all is to bring those responsible to justice.”

Oldham Council leader, Cllr Amanda Chadderton, added: “I’m glad to see that the police investigation into this horrific incident is progressing, and has reached this important stage.

“I also know that there has been significant concern in the local community, and would encourage people to continue to engage with us, and with police, as they work to bring those responsible to justice.”