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LIVE: Huge cordon in downtown Rochdale after the discovery of a suspicious object with explosions

A huge cordon was laid in downtown Rochdale this morning after a suspicious object was found.

Several major roads have been closed, according to Transport for Greater Manchester. Manchester Road, Dane Street, the Esplanade and the Gate of St. Mary are closed.

Parts of Drake Street and College Road are also closed. According to the Inrix Traffic Signal Service, the closures have been in effect since the early hours of this morning (Thursday). Controlled explosions were heard this morning, the first around 6.45 am and the second around 9.30 am.

READ MORE: A motorcyclist was taken to hospital as a police cordon off the main road after an accident

A GMP spokesman said: “At around 3.10am on Thursday, April 21, 2022, we received a report of a suspicious item on Dane Street, Rochdale.

“Officers have arrived and found a suspicious object. A cordon has been set as a precautionary measure and specialists are present. Members of the public have been asked to avoid the area. During the initial reaction, officers were confronted with a man with a weapon. A 17-year-old man was detained safely. The investigation is ongoing. “

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GMPs were asked for more information on what they found. In a tweet, TfGM said: “Are you traveling downtown Rochdale this morning? Roads have been closed due to a police incident. Manchester Road / Drake St. St. Mary’s Gate / College Road. The Esplanade / Manchester Road / Dane Probable closure of the street for the next hour #TfGMTraffic. “

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