A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape following an alleged serious assault on a teenager in Manchester city centre. The victim, a boy under the age of 18, was reportedly attacked in the toilets of a venue within the Printworks area.
Details of the Alleged Assault
According to Greater Manchester Police (GMP), the incident took place at approximately 5pm on Friday, April 24. The victim had reportedly arranged to meet a man via social media before the attack occurred in the toilets of an unnamed licensed premises on Dantzic Street.
Police have described the suspect as an Asian man between 18 and 20 years old with a slim build. He is described as having a goatee beard and black hair parted in the centre that covers his forehead.
At the time of the incident, the suspect was reportedly wearing glasses, a black puffy coat, dark jeans and white-and-black trainers.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Woodburn of GMP’s City of Manchester CID described the event as a “horrific and deeply distressing incident” that has had a “significant impact on the victim.”

The force has deployed a large number of officers, including members of the Major Incident Team, to conduct extensive CCTV and forensic enquiries. In response to the event, extra patrols have been implemented in the evenings to address concerns for those who frequent the area.
Detectives are now specifically appealing for a second man to come forward. Police believe this individual was “in or around the toilets” of the licensed premises at the time and may possess vital information to assist the investigation.
Potential Next Steps
As forensic and CCTV enquiries continue, investigators may identify further individuals of interest or secure additional evidence to support the current case. A possible next step could involve the formal charging of the suspect if further enquiries provide sufficient evidence.
The continued presence of extra patrols may remain a priority for GMP until the investigation reaches a stage that alleviates public concern in the Printworks area.
Support Services
For those affected by rape or sexual assault, the following services are available in Greater Manchester:
- Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre: Provides 24-hour forensic medical examinations and emotional support. Call 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis: A confidential service for women over 18. Call 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected].
- We Are Survivors: Specialist trauma-informed support for male victims. Call 0161 236 2182.
- Emergency: Always call 999 in an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Greater Manchester Police looking for?
Police are appealing for anyone who was in the Printworks area at the time of the incident, and specifically a second man believed to have been in or around the toilets of the licensed premises on Dantzic Street.

How can the public provide information to the police?
Information can be reported to the dedicated team at 0161 856 4259, via 101, or through the GMP website LiveChat quoting log 2647 of 24/4/26. Crimestoppers can also be contacted in confidence at 0800 555 111.
What is the status of the arrested suspect?
A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape and has since been bailed pending further enquiries, subject to strict conditions including a ban on entering Manchester city centre.
How can communities better protect young people from the risks associated with meeting strangers from social media in public spaces?


