🐝 Bee in the Loop – Arrest in Piccadilly Gardens

On Sunday 28th September 2025, following the arrest of three individuals for suspected drug dealing in Piccadilly Gardens, a further male approached PC 09078 Tang holding an open can of beer.

The male appeared heavily intoxicated – his speech was slurred and he was stumbling across the bus lane, posing a danger to himself and others. PC Tang initially gave verbal advice regarding the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in force in Citywide especially for Piccadilly Gardens.

🔹 What is a PSPO?

A PSPO is a legal order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. It is put in place to tackle persistent anti-social behaviour and protect the public. In the Manchester City Centre, the PSPO places restrictions on activities such as street drinking, drug use, aggressive begging and nuisance behaviour. It allows police and council officers to intervene early, seize alcohol and disperse individuals to prevent escalation.

PSPOs are designed to make public spaces safer and more welcoming for everyone – residents, businesses and visitors alike. Compliance is expected and breaches can lead to warnings, fines or arrest.

When asked to surrender his alcohol under the PSPO, the male refused. He was detained so the alcohol could be seized and his details taken for anti-social behaviour and intelligence purposes. Checks revealed he was subject to multiple court bail conditions, including a ban on entering Piccadilly Gardens due to previous arrests for public order and drunk and disorderly offences.

The male was arrested for breach of court bail and transported to Pendleton Police Custody. During transport he was further arrested for:

Greater Manchester Police will not tolerate abusive or threatening behaviour towards officers or the public. Court-imposed conditions and PSPOs are in place to protect communities and must be adhered to. Anyone who breaches them will face swift and robust action.