Thieves on scooters are snatching phones in Salford
Police warn public to be on their guard
Police in Salford are investigating a spate of robberies that involve suspects on motorbikes or scooters are mounting pavements and snatching mobile phones from people.
The offences are happening at busy times when people are commuting to and from work; between 6.30am and 8am and 4pm and 9pm.
Several incidents have also been reported on the outskirts of Manchester City Centre near to Victoria Station and the Manchester Arena.
A CCTV image of an attempted robbery that officers think is linked has been released. It happened around 5.45pm on Wednesday 17 January 2018 on Blackfriars Road, Salford.
Police Constable Chris Jackson of GMP’s Salford Borough, said: “As the reports have come in, we’ve noticed a pattern and want to make people aware of what is happening while we try to put a stop to it.
“It’s so important that if people witness a robbery or become victim of a robbery that they contact us when they can, even if the offenders aren’t successful.
“I know the image is taken from a long distance but you can see the rider is wearing a white helmet and hi vis vest, which would stand out in the dark time the offences are happening.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6471 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111