Two Pickpockets Jailed For Stealing Phones At Slipknot Show

Two men have been sentenced to jail for stealing mobile phones at a Slipknot show in Manchester.

Marius Patriche, 33, and Mihaita Marius Caban, 34, targeted fans at Manchester Arena on January 16 who were "jumping up and down".

Caban was arrested by the British Transport Police after being detained trying to leave the gig. He was found to have 14 mobile phones hidden in a swimming costume he was wearing underneath his normal clothes.

“Thanks to the keen eyes of security staff at the Arena who detained Caban, officers were able to arrest him," said investigating officer DCI Marcus Haigh.

Patriche was arrested later that night after victims tracked their stolen phones to a hotel in Salford. Inside his room, police officers found 10 phones inside a suitcase, plus cash, swimsuits and concert tickets.

“Tracking devices on the stolen phones led officers to Patriche who admitted he had attended the concert intent on a crime spree, removing victims’ phones from their pockets as they were jumping up and down to the music.

“Thieves like Caban and Patriche are drawn to busy environments, not just concerts but train stations and anywhere where their victims may be temporarily distracted."

Caban pleaded guilty to theft charges and was jailed for four months. Patriche also admitted theft charges and received eight weeks in prison. Both men were ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £122.

“We advise people to stay vigilant in these situations and to keep an eye on their belongings at all times making sure they are safe and secure and where possible, out of sight," said DCI Marcus Haigh.

“We use variety of tactics to deter organised crime gangs from targeting events like these and share information with other agencies in the UK and abroad in a bid to apprehend those responsible.”

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