Yahoo News Shocking moment criminals target innocent man on major Manchester road
This is the shocking moment two thieves on a bike swiped a phone from a man's hand on a busy street in Manchester.
The footage was filmed on Great Ancoats Street on April 11. It appeared to show two people on a bike riding along the pavement of the busy road.
They approached a male who had his phone to his ear, before they then snatched the device and cycled away. The male then chased after the thieves before the CCTV footage cut out.
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Police said this incident was believed to be part of a 'linked series'. Officers received several reports of phone thefts in the Manchester city centre and Ancoats areas between 7pm and 8pm on April 11.
Detectives believe other incidents were phones were snatched from people on the street happened outside this period though and have launched an investigation. Two arrests have been made so far in connection with the reported thefts.
A boy, 13, and a woman, 37, were arrested on suspicion of robbery and handling stolen goods. Both have since been released 'under strict conditions' while the probe continues.
Police said the thieves were reported to have used an electric bikes. They specifically targeted people with Apple iPhones.
They have released images of some of the iPhones recovered in a bid to track down the victims. Officers also released an image of 'two outstanding wanted suspects'.
Anyone who recognises them, who believes they have been a victim or who has any information should contact Greater Manchester Police.
Detective Constable Nick Kershaw, who is leading the investigation from GMP's 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."
Below are photos of the stolen phones:
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