A man has been arrested after two people were stabbed inside a café on Tonge Moor Road in Bolton on Monday morning, prompting a significant police response and leaving local residents expressing concern about safety in the area.
Greater Manchester Police were called to the scene at around 10.30am on 21 April following reports of a stabbing. Officers arrived to find two men with stab wounds, both of whom were treated by medical professionals at the scene.
According to witnesses, the attacker walked into the café and stabbed a young man who was sitting at a table. A second man also sustained a stab wound during the incident. The primary victim is understood to have fought back in self-defence before the suspect reportedly sat down calmly following the attack and was subsequently detained by officers. A man in his 50s was arrested on suspicion of assault and remains in police custody.
Multiple police vehicles were stationed on Tonge Moor Road throughout the morning as officers conducted door-to-door enquiries in the surrounding streets. The visible police presence drew a crowd of concerned residents and passers-by.
Local people were quick to voice their unease. One resident said the area had become increasingly dangerous. “You’re not safe in Tonge Moor at all,” they said. “There’s all these things, people with knives, and you’re looking round when you walk. It’s scary.” Another told The Bolton News the incident had come as a shock, while a third resident said she worried about her daughter travelling to school in the area given recurring reports of anti-social behaviour.
Greater Manchester Police said: ‘Emergency services attended, and two men were treated by medical professionals on site for stab wounds. Enquiries are ongoing.’
Management at The Deli thanked the customer on their Facebook page and said he would eat free there for life.
The message read: ‘Dear customers, regarding the incident that took place this morning on Tonge Moor Rd;
‘This incident has followed down and spilled into our premises. We would like to assure you all, our customers and staff are safe and helping GMP with their investigation.
‘We would also like to thank our customer today who helped during the incident, keeping us safe. Of course he will receive free orders for life!
‘Due to the disruption we have closed for the remainder of the day and will let you all know when we are back open for business. We wholeheartedly apologise for any inconvenience caused.
‘The police presence drew the attention of residents and passers‑by, with several people speaking out about the incident and stopping their car to see what was going on.
‘Thank you for understanding and we will see you all very soon!’
