Clonezone, a store located on busy Sackville Street in Manchester City Centre, has been targeted once again. On Sunday 10th September 2023 at around 2pm, vandals struck for the fifth time within just four months, raising fresh concerns among local businesses and police.
Police investigations reveal that two suspects on a bicycle attempted to break the shop’s windows, which had already been fortified with iron bars due to previous attacks. When smashing the windows failed, the suspects hurled objects at the doors and security equipment, resulting in an estimated £3,500 worth of damage.
Officers reviewing CCTV footage believe the bicycle used in this attack is the same one involved in an assault back in May. Detectives are now urgently trying to trace the owner of the bike and have appealed to the public for any information.
Chief Inspector Steve Wiggins, head of Greater Manchester Police’s City Centre Neighbourhood Team, said, “So far, we have arrested a person, but we know someone out there knows where this bike is and who it belongs to. We’re urging them to get in touch.”
Although the CCTV footage quality is poor, police hope the clips will help jog memories. Inspector Wiggins noted that all the attacks share striking similarities, with offenders arriving by bicycle to cause damage. Solving the mystery behind these incidents is vital to apprehending those responsible.
Concern is growing within the local community as Greater Manchester Police has assigned a specialist unit to investigate the case and increased patrols around Clonezone to protect shoppers and staff.
Inspector Wiggins added, “Our neighbourhood officers are friendly and approachable. If you see or hear anything suspicious, please come speak to us. Your information could help us catch the criminals and keep our streets safe.”
Crimestoppers is offering a £2,000 reward for information leading to arrests and convictions. Members of the public can call anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, tips about the bike or suspects in the footage can be reported to GMP on 0161 856 3345 or via the 101 non-emergency number.
Originally published by UKNIP.
