Six Men Charged After Massive Parklife Festival in Manchester
Six men have been charged following last weekend’s Parklife festival in Manchester, which attracted over 160,000 revellers to Heaton Park. The event was part of a busy weekend of concerts and festivals across the city, pulling in around 400,000 visitors over four days.
Huge Crowd, Heavy Security
Superintendent Andy Sidebotham, GMP’s gold commander, said: “The weekend was exceptionally busy with over 400,000 people visiting across multiple events, including the Parklife festival. Over 160,000 attended Parklife alone, with just over 50 arrests made.”
Thanks to meticulous planning and collaboration between police and event partners, the weekend passed without any major incidents. “It’s a fantastic result considering the scale. We seized weapons and drugs that could have caused serious harm,” added Sidebotham.
The Six Charged: Who Are They?
- Marek Ondo (b. 1987, Salford): Charged with possession with intent to supply, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance or licence. Currently remanded; next court appearance 7 July at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court.
- Harvey McMulkin (b. 2002, Bolton): Charged with obstructing police. Released on bail; court date 4 August.
- Jake Twist (b. 2000, Irlam): Charged with possession of a bladed article. Trial scheduled for 19 July at Manchester Crown Court.
- Atiqe Edwards (b. 2003, no fixed address): Sentenced to eight months in a Youth Offenders’ Institute after being caught with a knife while trying to enter the festival.
- Stephen Dorsey (b. 1988, Timperley): Charged with driving while disqualified and under the influence of drugs. Court appearance set for 16 September at Stockport Magistrates’ Court.
- Mthulisi Khumalo (b. 1996, Rotherham): Charged with drink driving. Released on bail; court date 4 August in Manchester.
A Busy, But Safe Celebration
Superintendent Sidebotham praised the public’s patience and cooperation during what was likely the busiest day of the year for Manchester’s transport network and emergency services. “Hundreds of officers and partners worked tirelessly to keep everyone safe and make sure the festival was a success.”
