Explosion at cafe ‘could be linked to car blast’
DETECTIVES believe two explosions in Salford could be linked.
In the latest incident a device, possibly an industrial-strength firework, was placed under the shutters of a cafe.
It damaged the shutters, canopy, and pavement, at The Lounge in Concord Place, Douglas Green, Pendleton.
The bang, about 12.30am yesterday, could be heard across Greater Manchester.
Residents in the flats above the cafe were evacuated as a precaution, but were soon back in their homes.
The bomb disposal unit attended to support the investigation – which police say is the usual procedure for this kind of incident.
About 7pm on Saturday, a Vauxhall Corsa in Grafton Avenue, Eccles, was wrecked after an industrial firework was put in the exhaust pipe.
The explosion tore the bumper and back lights off the car.
In a statement GMP said of the cafe attack: “Although the investigation remains at an early stage and the cause of the explosion is yet to be firmly established, it is believed that it could potentially have been an industrialtype firework.
“Detectives are considering the possibility that the incident could be linked to the one on Grafton Avenue.”
Supt Mark Kenny of GMP’s Salford Borough, said: “This happened in the middle of the night and understandably a number of people will be concerned about the incident.
“Fortunately no one was hurt but this does not dilute the severity of what has happened.
“I want to thank people who have already got in touch with us and I would ask that anyone with information to come forward.
“We are piecing together the information we have received but need you to make that call to gain a fuller picture.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting reference number 33 of September 12, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.