Greater Manchester Police have arrested nine people after a group gathered to celebrate Adolf Hitler’s birthday in a pub, triggering a series of police raids and the discovery of weapons and Nazi memorabilia.
The incident occurred on 19 April at the Duke of Edinburgh pub in Royton, Greater Manchester, where a group of individuals reportedly entered the premises to mark what would have been the Nazi dictator’s 136th birthday. The group brought a cake featuring a swastika, prompting widespread condemnation.
Pub landlord Terry English told Metro that the individuals “snuck in the pub” and claimed, “none of the staff saw anything.” He added that he later reported the matter to the police after discovering what had occurred.
In a coordinated operation on Tuesday morning, Greater Manchester Police arrested nine suspects on suspicion of offences under Section 18 of the Public Order Act. The law covers the display of written material that is threatening, abusive or insulting with the intent to incite racial hatred.
As part of their ongoing investigation, officers carried out searches at multiple addresses across the region, including Rochdale, Bolton, Trafford, Stockport, and Southport.
During these searches, police recovered imitation firearms, various weapons such as swords and a crossbow, as well as Nazi memorabilia and literature.
A suspected grenade was also found at a property in Bolton, prompting the involvement of explosives specialists. After an assessment, the item was declared safe. However, police cordons remain in place while officers continue searches at several locations.
Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker confirmed the force is working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing North West due to the serious nature of the materials discovered.
“Due to the nature of the materials we recovered at the warrants today, we have liaised with colleagues at Counter Terrorism Policing North West,” Parker said.
“It’s important that all avenues are explored to establish the extent of the criminal offences which have been committed, and whilst our investigation is still in its early stages, we do not believe there to be a risk to the wider public.”
She added: “This group clearly has a deep fascination with ideas that we know are unsettling for communities across Greater Manchester.”
ACC Parker also stressed the importance of community safety, saying: “We must take action when concerns are raised, and where weapons are suspected, to ensure people are free to live without fear of intimidation or harm.”
She urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information or concerns. “Public safety is at the forefront of our investigation, and as always, we ask that you remain vigilant, and if you have any information or concerns, then to contact us,” she concluded.
Investigations are ongoing as police work to determine the full scope of the group’s activities and any further criminal implications.
