Police make arrest after pagoda is vandalised
A MAN has been arrested after the iconic pagoda was vandalised in Manchester’s Chinatown.
The structure was found smashed up, with red wooden gates left badly damaged and broken.
The pagoda is now closed for repairs to be carried out.
The incident is thought to have occurred between 1am and 3am on Tuesday, with council city centre spokesperson Pat Karney saying those at fault have ‘let Manchester down.’
Greater Manchester Police has since confirmed that one male, aged in his 20s, was arrested yesterday on suspicion of causing damage and theft. Pictures show the extent of the damage caused after the incident.
Speaking to the M.E.N. previously, Coun Karney said: “It’s mindless vandalism on one of the most iconic structures in Manchester. Without those safety fences it’s unsafe, so we’ve had to close it.
“They have let Manchester down. That arch is much-loved not just by the Chinese community, but the whole city as well.”
It was first thought that four ornamental statues had been stolen - one of which being an import from China, however two were later recovered. The structure, first installed in the 1980s, is something of a hub for the community, according to one business owner.
David Law has owned the arts and craft gift shop opposite it since the late1980s. He told the M.E.N: “I have been here since the late 80s, we have seen this arch and pagoda being built back in the 80s and over the decade you see vandalism and antisocial behaviour gatherings.
“It is not good. It is a tourist attraction, so it’s just heartbreaking to see it in this state.”