Police are investigating after a crossbow bolt was fired at an Oldham primary school earlier this week, it has been confirmed.
Officers were called to Littlemoor Primary School in Oldham on Tuesday after the weapon was fired into school grounds and hit some guttering on the outside of the building. Pupils were forced to stay inside due to concerns for their safety as police carried out enquiries in the area.
The arrow has been sent off for analysis, with officers stepping up police presence in the area around drop-off and pick-up times this week. In a statement, police called the incident an 'incredibly dangerous, stupid and irresponsible act'.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Michael Unsworth, Chief Operating Officer at Kingfisher Learning Trust, said police have 'reassured us' pupils are able to attend school as normal.
"On Tuesday a member of the public fired an arrow onto the school grounds from outside of the school perimeter; the arrow did not make contact with anyone," he said.
"Greater Manchester Police were notified immediately and are investigating the incident. The police have reassured us that children can continue to attend school as usual."
Police have been carrying out house-to-house interviews following the 'irresponsible act', which they say could have resulted in serious injury.
Neighbourhood Sergeant Graham Craven said: "GMP response officers attended the scene and we have also carried out extensive interviews and house-to-house enquiries. Neighbourhood officers have also been into the school to speak to staff and we will have extra officers in the area for the rest of the week at drop-off and pick-up times.
"We found what we believe to be a crossbow bolt, which was fired at the school and hit the guttering, and have sent it off for analysis. This was an incredibly dangerous, stupid and irresponsible act that could have resulted in serious injury.
"If anyone has any information, we would encourage them to contact police quoting log 710-070323. Information can be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk. If you can't report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
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