Woman, 32, is arrested for murder of two men who were shot dead at lockdown street party in Manchester
- Hundreds attended outdoor lockdown party in Moss Side, Manchester Sunday
- Abayomi Ajose, 36, and Cheriff Tall, 21, were fatally shot shortly before 1am
- Greater Manchester Police arrested a 32-year-old woman on two murder counts
A 32-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of two men at an outdoor lockdown party in Manchester.
Police made arrested the suspect, from the Birmingham area, following their investigation of the murder of two men in Moss Side, just south of Manchester.
She remains in custody for questioning as police continue to appeal for information.
At around 12.55am on 21 June 2020, police were called to reports that gun shots on Caythorpe Street in Moss Side.
Police wear protective clothing and masks as they arrive to the scene of the fatal shootings in the Manchester today
A short time later, police were made aware that two men had arrived at hospital with gunshot wounds.
Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, 36-year-old Abayomi Ajose and 21-year-old Cheriff Tall sadly died.
The families of the victims are being kept up to date with the progress of the investigation by specialist liaison officers.
Detective Inspector Andrew Butterworth said: ‘Firstly, our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones, who are understandably devastated.
‘A thorough and fast-paced investigation is already well under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and arrest those responsible. As we speak, dedicated teams of officers are carrying out house to house inquiries and reviewing CCTV.
‘We are aware that, in the hours before this incident, there was a community event in Moss Side.
‘This event was monitored by Greater Manchester Police in conjunction with partner agencies – it was not an illegal rave and it had concluded prior to this incident.
‘We know that there were a number of people in the area at the time and, if they haven’t already, I appeal directly to them or anyone else with information, photographs or videos which may aid our investigation, to contact police straight away.
‘Finally, I would like to use this opportunity to offer the community some reassurance.
‘I understand this news will cause concern but there will be an increased police presence in the area throughout today and the coming week – I would encourage anyone with any concerns at all to speak.’
Earlier this week, Greater Manchester Police vowed to take ‘serious action’ to deter more illegal raves after two gatherings in Trafford and Oldham last weekend.
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6777 quoting 221 of 21/06/20 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Any photos or videos should be uploaded to [email protected]. This can be done anonymously.