The man was arrested following a foot chase
The arrest is in connection to a series of incidents across Manchester, Salford and Bury (Image: Adam Vaughan)
A 52-year-old man has been arrested following a series of violent robberies targeting women across Manchester, Salford and Bury.
A total of 10 incidents were reported between Sunday, August 24 and Wednesday, September 3, involving a man approaching women in public and forcibly stealing their handbags.
In a number of cases, the victims were dragged to the ground and wrestled before the suspect escaped on foot.
Seven of the victims had their handbags stolen. All the incidents occurred in public areas, and police believe the man deliberately targeted women who were alone.
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Last night (Thursday, September 4), police spotted a man acting suspiciously in Crumpsall. On seeing the police vehicle, he attempted to hide by ducking down next to a car.
He attempted to get away on foot. Officers pursued and arrested him on the spot. He was found without any belongings, and police suspect he may have been preparing to commit another robbery.
Detective Inspector, Natasha Feerick, North District -Neighbourhood Crime Team, said: “These are serious offences, and we take reports incredibly seriously. It is of the utmost importance that people can feel safe in their local areas.
“We want to thank the victims for reporting these incidents to us and we’re working to get justice for them.
“Once we understood there was a pattern to these crimes, our officers went on proactive patrols to actively seek this person. By doing so, it helped us catch this suspect when it looked like he was out to commit yet another offence.
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“Our local police teams are committed to tackling crime and keeping people safe from harm. If you see anything like this, please do report it to the police and we will pursue it with the greatest importance.
“Thankfully no one required hospital treatment but they were understandably shook up”.