Greater Manchester Police have charged a 38-year-old man after a firearm and a substantial quantity of ammunition were found at a former nursery in Irlam, Salford. He has also been charged with possessing Class A drugs.
Charges and court date
Christopher Maxwell, 38, of Manor Road, Sale, has been charged with possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition without a certificate, and possession of Class A drugs, namely cocaine.
He was remanded in custody to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
The charges follow a police raid at the former Mini Fingers Day Nursery on Liverpool Road, Irlam, on the evening of Wednesday, October 7. Police said officers acted on information and recovered a firearm and a substantial quantity of ammunition after gaining entry.
Second arrest
A second man, aged in his 50s, was also arrested in connection with the discovery. Greater Manchester Police said he has been released on bail while further enquiries continue.
Maxwell has been charged, not convicted. The allegations will be tested in court.
What residents should know
Salford residents and local commercial property managers face immediate security implications after police recovered a firearm and ammunition from a vacant former nursery in Irlam. Property owners should review security at empty commercial premises, while nearby residents can follow official Greater Manchester Police updates and court proceedings. The charges relate to alleged offences and do not establish guilt.
Claims about packaged drugs, Cobden Street, criminal drop points, increased patrols or a November Crown Court hearing were not supported by the available police and court reporting and have been removed.