On Bonfire Night, November 5, the streets of Greater Manchester descended into chaos with a significant increase in fireworks-related incidents.

Emergency crews faced flares being thrown at them, cars and motorbikes were set ablaze, and fireworks were launched at homes in a night marked by lawlessness.

A large group of teenagers attacked police in Gorton, setting an illegal bonfire and igniting a car, transforming residential streets into what was described as a 'warzone'.

Ashton-under-Lyne also saw its share of violence, with smoke filling residential areas as flares were fired at houses.

In Salford, a car erupted into flames, resulting in the closure of Liverpool Street as fire service crews and police came under further firework attacks.

Throughout the evening, Greater Manchester Police responded to 507 reports of anti-social behaviour, with 203 directly related to fireworks. This marked a staggering increase of over 1,900 percent from the previous year, which only saw ten fireworks incidents.

In total, eleven arrests were made for various offences, including violent disorder and possession of weapons.

The chaos began at 4 PM on Vine Street, Gorton, where teenagers targeted emergency services with fireworks and set vehicles on fire.

Three males aged between 16 and 18 were arrested for violent disorder, and investigations are ongoing.

Police also responded to incidents on Cardinal Street, Cheetham Hill, where youths launched fireworks in a local park and directed them at houses.

Emergency crews faced further attacks as fireworks were set off near them, leading to a dispersal order. A disturbance on Boardman Street in Bolton saw around 100 people gathering, with some launching fireworks.

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) recorded 270 fire-related incidents, with the North West Fire Control handling 478 calls on Bonfire Night, both figures being higher than in 2023.

Superintendent John Paul Ruffle emphasized the unacceptable nature of these events and the ongoing investigations into the anti-social behaviour.

Ruffle mentioned the commitment of law enforcement to tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure community safety, while Sarah Nattrass of GMFRS commended the dedication of firefighters amidst challenging conditions.

She expressed regret over the targeting of emergency services but acknowledged the majority of residents who engaged positively during the festivities.