Heightened patrols after report near Bolton Street
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have increased their presence around places of worship in Oldham after a local mosque shared a community alert about a man reportedly asking where mosques are located and indicating he would return with friends once he knew their whereabouts. The interaction was said to have taken place in the area around Bolton Street.
Leaders at Jamia Mohi ul Islam Siddiquia Oldham circulated a message urging people to be cautious and to pass any relevant information to the authorities and mosque committees. Photographs of the individual were provided to police as part of their enquiries.
Police response and ongoing enquiries
GMP confirmed that neighbourhood officers are in contact with local mosque representatives and are conducting more patrols to offer reassurance. No arrests have been made and enquiries are continuing.
“Our Neighbourhood Team are engaging with the local mosques and are increasing the patrolling in the area to provide reassurance to the community. No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.”
The force’s approach aims to stabilise concerns promptly while it examines the report and any supporting information provided by the mosque and residents.
Community message: be alert, don’t confront
The mosque’s appeal stresses measured vigilance. It asks people to keep their mosque committees informed, to contact police with any information that could assist, and not to challenge anyone directly based solely on a photograph or assumptions. The priority, it said, is safeguarding community members while allowing officers to investigate thoroughly.
- Stay vigilant around places of worship, especially in and around the Bolton Street area.
- Report any suspicious behaviour or relevant information to police and inform your local mosque management.
- Do not approach or confront individuals based on images or assumptions.
Local volunteers who help open up and lock up buildings, and those coordinating worship and classes, have been encouraged to keep usual precautions in place—such as travelling in pairs where possible, checking entry points, and noting unusual activity—while routine events continue as normal.
What residents can do to help
Officers routinely rely on clear, timely information from the public. If you see something concerning near a mosque or community building, note the time, location and a brief description of what you observed. If safe to do so, let building stewards or committee members know as soon as possible. Police have asked that any images or footage be shared directly with them so enquiries can be assessed properly.
Community cohesion groups in Oldham regularly work alongside neighbourhood policing teams to maintain trust and share updates quickly when concerns arise. GMP has indicated that enhanced patrols are intended to reassure worshippers and residents while lines of enquiry are pursued, rather than to signal any change to the current threat level.
Key facts at a glance
| Location | Area around Bolton Street, Oldham |
|---|---|
| Report origin | Jamia Mohi ul Islam Siddiquia Oldham |
| Police response | Increased neighbourhood patrols and engagement with mosques |
| Status | No arrests; enquiries ongoing |
Residents across Oldham are encouraged to continue daily routines, remain aware of surroundings near community venues, and share any concerns through established channels. GMP says the visible patrols are there to support the public and maintain confidence while officers assess the reported approach.
