Peter Bleksley Defends Armed Officers at Manchester's Christmas Market
- Armed officers are patrolling Manchester's Christmas market to ensure safety during the festive season.
- The police's social media announcement about armed officers was removed after public backlash.
- Former detective Peter Bleksley supports the armed presence, highlighting its importance in modern-day security.
During a recent event in Manchester City Centre, armed police officers were deployed to ensure public safety at the Christmas market. This decision sparked controversy among locals who questioned the need for armed presence, prompting the removal of a police social media post highlighting the patrols. Former Scotland Yard Detective Peter Bleksley supported the decision, arguing it reflects modern security needs and serves as a deterrent against potential threats. However, former Labour MP Stephen Pound raised concerns that the armed presence might increase public fear rather than alleviate it, emphasizing the necessity for a balanced approach to security in crowded spaces. Bleksley encouraged attendees to enjoy the market, while emphasizing the need for more police visibility to combat rising crime rates in the UK.