Thieves target Pokemon gamers
Three students have been robbed of their mobile phones at knifepoint while playing Pokemon Go.
They were targeted on Friday night just hours after Greater Manchester Police ( GMP) warned of the dangers of using the phone app.
The force said it feared the app could provide another online avenue for criminals to exploit.
Its adv ice to users included paying attention to surroundings, especially in built-up areas.
GMP City Centre tweeted: “GMP warning on Pokemon Go risks soon confirmed as three students robbed of phones in Hulme last night chasing Pokemon.”
The robberies took place in Hulme Park at about 8pm, added police.
The augmented reality game was launched in the UK on Thursday and has exploded in popularity.
It uses the phone’s GPS data to allow players to roam the real world and catch virtual monsters.
GMP’s public protection division also urged parents and teachers to speak to young people about staying safe when using the app.
Detective Superintendent Joanne Rawlinson said: “We know cr iminals move quickly to exploit the latest developments to target victims and Pokemon Go will already be in their sights.
“I would urge parents to speak to their chi ldren about the app and the best ways to make sure they stay safe.”