Salford shootings blamed on warring groups

A series of shooting incidents in Salford have been blamed on a dispute between two warring groups.

Greater Manchester Police has been called to four incidents in which shots were fired and a fifth report of gunfire in the area since 9 September.

No-one has been injured in the shootings.

Ch Supt Kevin Mulligan said the shootings were not believed to be random but part of a continuing dispute.

'Reckless acts'

Patrols in the area have been increased and armed officers are present in the area.

Mr Mulligan said: "This is not something the community should be alarmed about but reassured we have officers on standby to respond quickly to any incidents and protect innocent people.

"No-one has been injured despite these reckless acts and we are doing everything we can to ensure not only does that stay the case, but that those involved are identified and arrested."

The first incident took place at about 22:30 BST on 9 September at Enville Road, Duchy, Salford. Police said a car window was damaged.

The following day at about 17:40 police were called to The Gardens, Eccles, following reports of shots being fired. However, officers who attended could not find any evidence of a firearms discharge.

On 13 September at 19:40 there was another report of a shot being fired at Summerville Road, Duchy.

At about 23:30 on Tuesday, police said shots were fired at the front door and window of a house in Hayfield, Salford.

The fifth incident took place on Wednesday at about 17:45. Officers on patrol noticed damage to the door of a house on Doveleys Road, Salford, consistent with a shot having being fired.

Mr Mulligan said anyone with information about the dispute could contact them in confidence if necessary.