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