Man Admits Bringing Weapons Outside Middleton School

Download IPFS

GREATER MANCHESTER – A 20-year-old man has pleaded guilty to bringing a variety of weapons onto school premises in Middleton, Greater Manchester, sparking concern but no injuries.

Douk Deng, from Taylor Street, Heywood, was arrested on 6 August after reports of suspicious behaviour outside Edgar Wood Academy on Heywood Old Road. At the time, the school was closed for the summer holidays and was scheduled to reopen in September.

Greater Manchester Police responded promptly to the incident, cordoning off the area near the school gates and erecting a blue tent to secure the scene. Officers quickly arrested Deng on suspicion of possession of offensive weapons.

Following a thorough investigation and a search of Deng’s property, he was charged with multiple offences. These included two counts each of criminal damage, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and on school premises, as well as possession of a bladed article in both locations.

Deng, who has identified himself as South Sudanese, appeared at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on 8 August, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Minshull Street Crown Court on 5 September.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Around midday on 6 August, we responded to reports of a male acting suspiciously outside a school in Middleton. Officers swiftly arrested a man on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon. He remains in custody for questioning. No one was injured. We would like to reassure the community that there is no wider threat related to this incident.”

This case highlights the importance of swift police response to incidents near schools, particularly regarding the safety of students and staff. While the school was closed at the time, the incident serves as a reminder of ongoing security challenges faced by educational institutions.

Local authorities and schools continue to work closely with police to monitor and safeguard school environments, especially during vulnerable periods such as holidays and reopening.

Community members have expressed relief at the prompt action taken by the police and the reassurance that no further threat exists. Schools remain focused on ensuring safe learning spaces for all students as they prepare for the new term.