On Wednesday 6 May 2026 at Manchester Crown Court Andrew Alveranga (06/11/1986) of Brennan Close, Manchester, was handed three years in prison for robbery.

At around 9.45am on Monday 23 February 2026, the victim, a pregnant woman in her 30s, was walking along Stretford Road with her mobile phone in her hand when she noticed Alveranga closely approaching her on a bicycle. Alveranga quickly snatched the mobile phone from her hand and as he did so, the victim shouted “no” as it was strapped to her.

The force caused the victim to fall to the ground. She was 36 weeks pregnant at the time. Alveranga made off in the direction of Princess Road in possession of the victim’s mobile phone.

Officers in a patrol car were flagged down by the victim who gave a description of Alveranga and was able to track the location of her mobile phone using her tablet. Officers conducted an area search of the last location showing on the victim’s tablet and continued to follow its live location.

Shortly after 10am the device tracked to Valery Walk, Hulme. Officers made to the location and a passer-by stated an individual had just made off when he saw the police and discarded the green jumper he was wearing in a bush.

They continued to track the device until it remined stable at a location on Roseberry Street, in Moss Side, where they located Alveranga. He matched the description they had been given and was further identified through CCTV footage.

Alveranga was arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken into custody for interview. He denied committing any offence and claimed the phone belonged to him. Further investigation revealed the phone did not belong to him and it belonged to the victim.

On 06/05/2026 at Manchester Crown Court, Alveranga was convicted of robbery. He was sentenced to three years in prison.

Police Constable Royle said: “I’d like to thank the victim and members of the community for reporting this incident to us and helping us with enquiries.

“This mindless offence could have had serious complications for the victim and her unborn baby at the time.

“We will continue to pursue offenders and bring them to justice. Our communities deserve to go about their lives without fear ensured that we are keeping them safe.”

If you are concerned about crime in your area, contact GMP on 101 or via the LiveChat function on our website.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.