Greater Manchester Police are appealing for help from the public following the theft of a mobility scooter belonging to an elderly woman in Eccles. The incident took place on September 8, 2024, at approximately 7pm on Clarendon Road, leaving the victim, an octogenarian with severe mobility issues, without her primary means of transportation and independence.
PC Sarah Whitfield, leading the investigation, explained the impact of the theft, stating, “The victim cannot walk very far due to mobility issues and relies on her mobility scooter to make short trips to local shops or catch a bus. She has lost her independence since her scooter was taken from her.
In a disturbing development, the stolen mobility scooter was later found by police, but it had been stripped of all its parts, rendering it unusable. The stripping of the scooter has compounded the distress for the victim, who is now unable to carry out her daily activities.
Detectives have released CCTV images of three men they wish to speak to in connection with the incident. These images have been compiled into a collage, and the police are hoping that the public can assist in identifying the individuals involved.
PC Whitfield issued an appeal, stating, “We are asking anyone who may have noticed something suspicious around the Clarendon Road area of Eccles on the evening of September 8, or anyone who recognises the men in the image, to contact us, as they may be able to assist with our inquiries.
The police are urging anyone with information to come forward. They can contact Greater Manchester Police via 101, quoting log number 1453 of 09/09/2024. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.