Police make four arrests after spate of thefts by young bikers

POLICE have arrested four boys after a spate of thefts by moped and motorbike riders snatching phones and other valuables from unsuspecting victims – and they say it’s ‘just the beginning’.

Crime on two wheels has been a major issue in Greater Manchester in recent months, with thieves ‘wreaking havoc’ on the region’s streets.

Dawn raids were executed in Middleton yesterday morning.

Four boys – aged 13, 16 and two 17-year-olds – were arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles including motorbikes, mopeds and quad bikes; robbery; and possession of weapons including knives.

They are currently in police custody for questioning.

Inspector Steve Jameson, from GMP’s Rochdale borough, said: “Officers from various units across the borough have done an exceptional job making arrests.

“Moped crime is an increasing issue so we have put together an operation dedicated to combatting its spread. This is just the beginning.

“We are seeing offenders who have stolen mopeds, motorbikes and quad bikes and are using them to wreak havoc in our communities.

“On a national scale, the police have had reports of phones being stolen from the hands of pedestrians, bags being ripped off people’s backs, and mopeds being used in robberies to ensure a quick getaway.”