Two men arrested in Liverpool following theft of mobile phones at music concerts across the UK

Officers arrested two people in Liverpool last night, Wednesday 17 January, following reports that more than 100 mobile phones had been stolen from people attending concerts across the UK in recent weeks.

There have been increased reports in Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham and Glasgow that thieves have been targeting concertgoers and stealing their mobile phones.

Following intelligence that two of the suspects were in the Liverpool area, officers spotted a vehicle linked to the alleged thieves after it was driven into a McDonald’s car park, on Blundell Street, in the city centre.

At the scene, officers reacted quickly to arrest a 37-year-old man from Dagenham and a 24-year-old man of no fixed abode on suspicion of theft. They remain in police custody at this time.

The vehicle was subsequently searched and cash, mobile phones, sim cards, sim card removers and phone cases were all seized.

Liverpool City Centre Inspector, Jack Woodward, said: “It has been reported that people attending recent concerts at venues in the UK have been targeted by a group of thieves and had their mobile phones stolen.

“We received intelligence that two of the suspects were in the Liverpool area last night and in response set up a policing operation. Thanks to the quick-thinking of officers, two men have now been arrested and suspected stolen mobile phones seized.

“To target concertgoers in this way, while they are trying to enjoy their evening, is completely unacceptable and can be extremely distressing for the victim.

“An investigation is ongoing and we are liaising with other police forces where other reports have been made. If you have any information, please get in touch to assist our ongoing enquiries.”

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook with reference 24000081300.

You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.