A brutal robbery in Manchester’s city centre has sparked renewed concerns over organised crime targeting luxury watch owners. The incident involved prominent interior designers, Wes and Pete, who were ambushed just steps from their hotel on Ducie Street after an evening out on the British Pullman train.

The attack took place late on Saturday, as four assailants, believed to have been monitoring the area, assaulted the pair near the Dakota Hotel. Wes was struck from behind and had his Rolex watch violently taken, sustaining cuts and bruises during the encounter.

“These individuals had been monitoring the area, harassing others earlier in the evening,” Pete reported. “They were clearly lying in wait at the top of Canal Street.”

The attack has heightened concerns about the potential rise in luxury watch thefts in Manchester, a pattern previously more associated with London. While local authorities are investigating and looking into CCTV footage, the extent of surveillance in the area remains unclear.

The robbery has cast a shadow over Canal Street, an area traditionally regarded as one of Manchester’s safer districts. Local business owners and residents have voiced alarm over what seems to be an escalation in targeted crimes.

Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and to avoid displaying high-value items when in the city centre. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Greater Manchester Police.

This incident follows a trend of similar attacks in other major UK cities, where organised groups have targeted individuals wearing expensive timepieces.