Police have arrested a 52-year-old man from north Manchester in connection with a series of violent robberies targeting lone women across Manchester, Salford and Bury.
Between 24 August and 3 September 2025, 10 incidents were reported in which a man approached women in public spaces and forcibly stole their handbags. In several cases, victims were dragged to the ground and wrestled before the suspect fled on foot.
Seven of the victims have been confirmed as having had their handbags stolen. All incidents occurred in public areas, and we believe the man deliberately target women who were alone.
Last night officers on proactive patrols in known hotspot areas spotted a man acting suspiciously in Crumpsall.
On seeing the police vehicle, he attempted to hide by ducking down next to a car. Officers saw this and approached, he then fled prompting a foot chase. Officers pursued and arrested him on the spot. He was found without any belongings, and we 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.
