Police patrols are stepped up in city

POLICING has been ramped up in Manchester city centre after the ‘horrific attack’ at Victoria station.

Armed officers and community support officers will remain on platforms and on the station concourse in the wake the shocking incident, which unfolded at around 8.50pm on New Year’s Eve.

A helpline number has also been set up to support those who have been in any way affected by the attack.

British Transport Police Assistant Chief Constable Sean O’Callaghan said: “Understandably, incidents of this nature are likely to cause concern, but I would like to reassure the public they are incredibly rare and we have officers on duty throughout the national rail network.

“In the meantime, we’d ask the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns by texting us discreetly on 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40.”

BTP Chief Superintendent Alan Gregory said armed police and community support officers will remain at the station over the next few days. He said: “Armed police are quite regular, and are routinely around reassuring the public. We expect to see continued presence of that as well as community support officers.”

Dozens of people watched as the drama unfolded on the busy platform, which is close to the scene of the Manchester Arena bombing attack which killed 22 people in May 2017. Police have since interviewed numerous witnesses to the attack and are calling on anyone with information to come forward. BTP tweeted: “We know the incident at Manchester Victoria is likely to cause concern. Our officers will be highly visible through the national rail network. If you see anything that worries you, trust your instincts and report it.” A man and a woman were seriously injured and a police officer suffered a stab wound to the shoulder during the attack on Monday night. The couple are expected to remain in hospital for some time, however their injuries are not thought to be life threatening. The BTP officer has since been released from hospital. A 25-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder remained in police custody.

If you see anything that worries you, trust your instincts and report it

British Transport Police