Police patrols stepped up after naked man 'grabs and harasses' people on busy road

Police patrols have been stepped up in Manchester city centre after a naked man 'grabbed and harassed' members of the public on a busy road.

Officers were first scrambled to the area following reports of a 'serious assault' on a woman on Heald Place on Saturday night (March 9). The woman was rushed to hospital with serious, but not life-threatening, injuries.

Shortly after, police were called to a reports of a man 'causing a disturbance' on nearby Oxford Road. He was reportedly wearing no clothes and was grabbing and harassing people on the busy street.

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No serious injuries were reported police said. A 30-year-old man was then arrested on suspicion of multiple offences following the 'series of assaults'.

He was arrested on suspicion of assault, sexual assault, attempted rape, and assaulting an emergency worker. He was also taken to hospital and has since been detained under the Mental Health Act, police confirmed.

An investigation is now underway. The victims are being supported by specialist officers.

Detectives want to speak to anyone who witnessed the 'incredibly concerning incident' or who has footage, particularly any taxi drivers who may have dash cam. Extra patrols are now also in place on Oxford Road and around Heald Place.

Detective Inspector Michelle Buchanan, from GMP’s City of Manchester district, said: "This is obviously an incredibly concerning incident, and I am glad that we were able to make a quick arrest not long after the reports came in to us. I want to firstly reassure locals and nearby residents that we are working hard to put together the exact details of what has gone on – to ensure those involved receive the justice they