Police show of force in response to attack horror
POLICE were out in force on the city’s trams following the horrific attack which left a driver with facial and chest injuries.
Thugs launched a brick at an oncoming tram in Oldham, completely smashing the windscreen and injuring the driver.
Greater Manchester Police have stepped up patrols around tram stops and even have mounted patrols on the lookout.
Tariq Butt, GMP’s chief inspector actually sat in the cab of one of the trams on Tuesday night to get an idea what it’s like on the tracks. He tweeted: “Riding in the cab of @MCRMetrolink tram following slab attack on driver. Supported by Mounted Unit & @GMPOldham @ gmptraffic @gmpolice.”
Photographs showed officers and police horses on bridges overlooking the tracks and at several tram stops.
The incident took place shortly before 10pm on Monday night in Oldham, between the Derker and Shaw and Crompton stops as the tram travelled towards Rochdale. A photograph of the tram shows the extent of the damage caused - with the whole windscreen shattered by the blow.
Since the attack, the newly elected Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said it was ‘disgraceful’ and could have been much worse.
Head of Metrolink Danny Vaughan, has said he is working closely with GMP to tackle this type of problem.
He said: “It is important to note that antisocial behaviour is not a problem that is specific to Metrolink, or public transport more generally, but is a far-reaching issue that affects all areas of the communities we serve.
“Metrolink, our staff and passengers are as much a victim as anyone.
“I’d encourage the local community to work with us and the police to help prevent further incidents by passing any information about the incident or person responsible to the police.”