Police are seeking information following an incident of attempted kidnapping where a woman was forcibly approached by a man while walking on a city center street. The Greater Manchester Police’s Criminal Investigation Department is requesting assistance from the public regarding the reported incident on January 9, 2026, between 6:05 am and 6:20 am.
According to authorities, the victim was walking along Central Park Way in Wigan when she was seized and threatened by the suspect, who tried to coerce her into accompanying him. Fortunately, the victim managed to break free, reach a safe location, and the suspect fled the scene.
The suspect is described as a white male, around 6 feet 1 inch tall, dressed in grey joggers, black trainers, a yellow hi-vis vest, and a black beanie hat.
Detective Sergeant Andrew Partington of GMP’s Wigan CID stated, “We are fully committed to investigating this incident thoroughly. The safety of the public is our utmost concern, and we are pursuing all leads to determine the circumstances surrounding this alarming event. Extra patrols have been deployed in the vicinity, and we encourage anyone with information to come forward.”
Authorities are providing support to the victim and conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. Individuals with any relevant information, including potential witnesses or individuals with CCTV/dashcam footage, are urged to contact the police. Reports can be made by calling 0161 856 7094 and quoting log 472 of 09/01/26. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.