A 15-year-old girl was snatched from an Altrincham street at knifepoint and held for seven hours in what police are saying was a random attack.
The girl was forced into a vehicle on Bradgate Road at around 6.45pm on Monday evening as she walked alone.
The MEN has reported that a witness heard her screams and noted the registration plate of the vehicle, allowing police to issue a targeted alert.
She was reported missing at around 9pm. Officers from Greater Manchester Police and Cheshire Police located the vehicle in the car park of the Cottons Hotel and Spa in Knutsford, where the teenager was found inside.
A 56-year-old man was arrested at the scene.
A statement from Greater Manchester Police said: "Working alongside Cheshire Police, we have arrested a man on suspicion of abduction after a teenage girl was reported missing from Altrincham on Monday 18 May.
"A 56‑year‑old man was arrested in the early hours of 19 May on Manchester Road, Knutsford, and remains in custody for further questioning.
"Specialist officers are supporting the girl and her family.
"There is no wider risk to the public. Further updates will be provided when appropriate."
The incident is believed to be random, and the girl was not known to the suspect.
Police added: “Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has any footage from the area is urged to contact police on 101 or via LiveChat on our website, quoting log 3609 of 18/05/2026.
“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
