Detectives are appealing for witnesses and victims following investigation into theft of mobile phones

Thursday, 25 April 2024 10:50

By David Murphy

- Footage has been released of an incident two weeks ago which detectives believe is part of a linked series.

- Two remain outstanding with two on bail in connection with the theft of phones.

- Crime prevention advice is below to ensure people remain vigilant whilst enquiries continue.

Following a recent investigation, detectives from our City of Manchester district are looking to speak to witnesses and victims following a number of thefts of phone incidents in the City Centre being committed on electric bikes.

Reports received were from the Ancoats and City Centre areas on Thursday 11 April 2024 between 7-8pm, although detectives believe other linked incidents may have occurred outside of this period.

Since then, we have arrested a 13 year-old boy and 37 year-old woman on suspicion of robbery and handling stolen goods and have been released under strict conditions whilst detectives continue to investigate.

Specifically Apple iPhone mobiles have been recovered as a result and our detectives now we are keen to speak to those who have been a victim of a connected crime where they have had their device stolen on the street out of their hand or if they recognise their phone below (pictured). Currently four have been reunited successfully with its victim with officers needing a pin number and further background information or evidence of purchase to be able to reunite it to the genuine owner.

Our detectives also want to further identify the following two people (pictured) who were filmed and pictured on CCTV committing the original offence and are outstanding wanted suspects.

The officer in charge of the investigation and Detective Constable Nick Kershaw from our City of Manchester North district said; “We are now in a position, two weeks on, to appeal to the public after a period of investigation, including arrests, and are keen to speak to anyone who may have been a victim of this type of crime recently or if they recognise their device below and have reported it stolen or lost, as we are keen to reunite you with it.

“We understand this type of crime results in unwanted stress and anxiety and are committed on tackling theft and robbery proactively to ensure our city centre remains safe and to prevent any repeat offences.

“Patrols remain in place to offer reassurance across our busy footfall areas, and I would also like to remind the local community to be extra aware of their surroundings when using personal devices on the street, as taking steps to avoid being distracted or using hands-free options may help stop you being a victim a crime.

“You can contact us direct on 0161 856 3827 with any concerns quoting incident number 732 of 12/04/2024. You can also contact us using 101 or through the Live Chat text function on our website homepage at gmp.police.uk

"Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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