Teens arrested over thefts

TWO teenagers have been arrested following a spate of mobile phone snatches from thugs on a motorbike.

Several people reported their phones were stolen on Tuesday, July 24, by offenders riding a motorcycle in Salford and Manchester city centre.

Detectives then spotted a bike believed to be linked to the incidents parked on Frederick Street in Salford.

Officers pursued the bike for a short period of time, assisted by the police helicopter and officers on foot. Two boys, aged 14 and 15, were arrested later on suspicion of robbery. They remain in custody while police continue to investigate. Supt Mark Dexter of GMP’s Specialist Operations Branch, said: “Officers have been proactively looking for those responsible for the robberies, and last night we made two significant arrests. “We now have two people in custody, but our enquiries into these robberies are very much ongoing. “That’s why it’s really important that we hear from people who have information about these robberies, or any other people who may also have had their phone taken in similar circumstances yesterday.

“There can be risks associated with pursuing suspects on motorcycles, but police are committed to protecting the public from criminals who use motorcycles to commit crime, and we will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.”

It comes after thieves on mopeds were seen targeting commuters in the city centre during rush hour.

A number of mobile phone snatches took place in Salford, the area around Victoria Station, Manchester Arena and the Green Quarter earlier this year.

And police have also warned about a spate of mobile phone and handbag thefts involving yobs on a motorbike around the St Mary’s Park area of Bury.

In one incident a mobile was taken from a 15-year-old girl.