The child was on a playing field in Blackley yesterday when the men grabbed her, Greater Manchester Police said. She bravely fought them off and managed to run away and alert the force, which has launched an investigation.

       Police have increased patrols in the area and are doing "everything they can" to track down the men involved in the "concerning incident".

       They are appealing to the public in the area and anyone who witnessed anything or has information is urged to come forward.

       "This is a concerning incident and thankfully the child was able to run away from the men," Detective Inspector Louise Edwards said.

       "I would like to reassure the community that we are doing everything we can to find these men and have increased patrols in the area whilst we investigate.

       "We are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed this incident or seen any men in the area matching these descriptions."

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       Greater Manchester Police has said that two of the men were white and one was mixed race.

       All of them were head to toe in dark clothing and face coverings.

       Anyone with information should contact North Manchester CID on 0161 856 1146 quoting incident number 3201 of 01/07/21.

       Information can also be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk.

       Alternatively, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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