Armed Man Sentenced Following ‘Brave’ Police Confrontation Outside Rochdale School

Rochdale, Greater Manchester – A man sparked a major security alert and was found with a cache of weapons outside a local academy. He has been sentenced to two years in prison.

Both Douk Deng was apprehended by response officers at Edgar Wood Academy on August 6th, 2025, following reports from a vigilant staff member. On Tuesday, July 28th, 2026, a judge handed down the custodial sentence, marking the end of a case that highlighted the, "professionalism and bravery", of Greater Manchester Police.

The incident unfolded during the school’s summer break. While no pupils were present on the grounds at the time, several contractors were working on-site when a staff member noticed Deng acting suspiciously. Police were alerted immediately.

Upon arrival, officers confronted Deng and successfully disarmed him. A subsequent search revealed he was in possession of a knife, a hammer, and a hatchet.

Chief Superintendent Helen Caldbeck, District Commander for Rochdale, praised the swift actions of her team in the wake of the sentencing.

“I’m incredibly proud of the officers’ response to this incident”, Chief Supt Caldbeck said. "They were professional and brave in tackling a suspicious man armed with weapons and immediately confronted Deng to keep the public safe."

The court is believed to have heard that the rapid intervention of the local response officers prevented any potential escalation, ensuring that the contractors on-site and the wider community remained unharmed.

Deng’s two-year sentence serves as a conclusion to an incident that shook the local community, though police leaders emphasised that the robust response demonstrates their commitment to public safety.

Deng has begun serving his sentence effective immediately.