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15-Year-Old Found Safe After Alleged Bowdon Abduction Arrest

Published 20 May 2026

A 15-year-old girl was allegedly abducted at knifepoint and held for approximately seven hours before being found safe and a suspect was arrested, according to police. The incident occurred in Bowdon, a village in Altrincham, on the evening of Monday, May 18.

Authorities stated the teenager was walking alone on Bradgate Road at around 6:45 p.m. when she was forced into a vehicle. She was reported missing at approximately 9 p.m. that evening. Police said a witness heard the girl's screams and was able to provide the vehicle's registration plate, leading to an alert for the specific car.

Officers from Cheshire Police located the vehicle in the early hours of Tuesday, May 19, in a car park at the Cottons Hotel and Spa in Knutsford, Cheshire. The girl was found inside the vehicle and was reported to be safe. A 56-year-old man was arrested at the scene.

In a statement, Greater Manchester Police confirmed the arrest was made on suspicion of abduction. The force said the man, described as a white male, remains in custody for further questioning after detectives were granted an extension. Police emphasized there is no wider risk to the public.

Specialist officers are supporting the girl...

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