Chris Slater

Former easyJet cabin crew member Lyren Maddix stole more than £30,000 worth of Amber Leaf tobacco from Manchester Airport on 26 occasions between August 2024 and January 2025, using his uniform and security pass to access restricted areas and an aircraft. He told police he sold the tobacco to fund cocaine use and drug debts. Maddix, who has a depressive disorder diagnosis and a history of suicidal behavior, pleaded guilty to theft by employee. Manchester Crown Court sentenced him to one year and four months in prison, suspended for two years, along with 250 hours of unpaid work, rehabilitation requirements and £300 in costs. He no longer works for easyJet and is now employed by Tesco.

Two RAF Typhoon jets were scrambled from RAF Coningsby to escort Qatar Airways flight QR23 from Doha after it caused concern to UK civil authorities. The aircraft landed safely at Manchester Airport, and the escort was ended before arrival. The nature of the concern remains unclear, although unconfirmed reports suggested air traffic controllers may have lost contact with the aircraft. Qatar Airways described the escort as a precaution following a UK security notification and said passengers and crew were never in danger.

Residents in Prestwich reported shock after a man in his 30s was stabbed in the leg on Carrigart, prompting a major response from Greater Manchester Police and paramedics. The victim suffered significant blood loss and was taken to hospital, while a man and woman, both in their 30s, were arrested on suspicion of affray. The street remained cordoned off as detectives and forensic teams investigated, with locals describing scenes of extensive blood and expressing concern for safety in the usually quiet area.

A woman in her 30s was found dead inside stables at Higher Tunshill Farm in Milnrow, Rochdale after a fire broke out, prompting police to open a murder investigation. A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of murder and later bailed as forensic teams continued work at the scene. Emergency services responded to the blaze early Friday afternoon, with significant flames and smoke reported by witnesses. Authorities have not released further details, and inquiries remain ongoing.