Nine arrested over ‘Hitler birthday celebration in pub'
The suspected neo-Nazis arrived at the Duke of Edinburgh in Oldham to mark the occasion with a swastika-emblazoned flag and a cake with icing of the same decoration.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said the individuals were arrested on Wednesday morning on suspicion of offences including displaying written material that is threatening, abusive or insulting, and intended to stir up racial hatred.
Officers recovered imitation firearms, weapons including swords and a crossbow, as well as Nazi memorabilia and materials, after attending addresses in Rochdale, Bolton, Trafford, Stockport and Southport.
Police said they have been in contact with Counter Terrorism Policing North West which has offered advice on some of the materials that have been seized.
A suspected grenade has since been declared safe with no risk to the public after the deployment of a bomb disposal unit in Bolton.
On its website, 'British Movement' posted pictures of a 'Northwest platoon' gathering to celebrate the birthday of 'Uncle A' over the Easter weekend.
Pictures were posted online, with the faces of their members pixelated out, showing them holding a flag covered in Nazi symbols.
In a now-deleted post, a cake with swastika icing was also posted by the group.
On its website, they describe themselves as 'a force for the preservation of white Aryan culture'.
The group added that its members had gathered on a 'gorgeous sunny afternoon' to celebrate Hitler's 136th birthday.
It described the celebration as 'one of many more to come'.
'Absolutely appalled'
The pub's operator, Craft Union Pubs, said it was 'absolutely appalled' at the party and had been unaware of it going on after the group 'concealed' their clothing and activities.
GMP said the investigation remains ongoing, with the suspects being held on suspicion of Section 18 Public Order Act offences.
Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker said: 'It's important that all avenues are explored to establish the extent of the criminal offences which have been committed, and whilst our investigation is still in its early stages, we do not believe there to be a risk to the wider public.
'This group clearly has a deep fascination with ideas that we know are unsettling for communities across Greater Manchester.
'We must take action when concerns are raised, and where weapons are suspected, to ensure people are free to live without fear of intimidation or harm.
'Public safety is at the forefront of our investigation, and as always, we ask that you remain vigilant, and if you have any information or concerns, then to contact us.'
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