Three Rochdale Council bin workers were injured during a violent confrontation while on their collection round in East Middleton, with at least one requiring hospital treatment.
The attack happened on the morning of Tuesday, 10 February on Mount Road, near its junction with Uplands in Alkrington. The incident is believed to have stemmed from a road rage dispute involving members of the public and bin crew staff.
In a public statement, Councillor Dylan Williams, who represents East Middleton, said the workers had been assaulted while doing their jobs. At least one was taken to hospital with reported injuries including broken ribs and loose teeth.
“This kind of behaviour has absolutely no place in Alkrington or Middleton,” said Cllr Williams. “Our bin men work very hard in all weathers and do not go to work to be abused.”
The councillor, who chairs the council’s Employment and Equalities Committee, said he had initially hesitated to post publicly, but changed his mind after seeing a video of the incident being shared online. The footage reportedly appeared to make light of the violence.
“It’s not funny. It’s disgusting. Council staff do not go to work to be abused,” he added.
The incident has been reported to Greater Manchester Police and is now under investigation. Rochdale Council is understood to be supporting both the workers involved and the police inquiry.
Superintendent Muzemil Kernain, from the GMP Rochdale district, said:
“Violence against public sector workers going about their work in the community will not be tolerated under any circumstances – everyone has right to carry out their duties without fear of harm or harassment.
“Any individual who engages in threatening or violent behaviour will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“Anyone with information about this incident should contact us quoting log 695 of 10/02/2026.”
A spokesperson for Rochdale Borough Council, said:
“We are shocked and saddened by this unprovoked attack on staff who were simply doing their jobs. Our waste operatives deserve respect and should not face any form of abuse while providing a public service. We will continue to assist GMP with their ongoing investigation and to provide support for the affected crew.”
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