By Jack Holmes
Since the release of Pokémon GO two days ago, you’ve probably seen dozens of articles scrolling through news feeds on the dangers of playing the game. If you’ve been disregarding the warnings, however, as fictional click bait, you might want to think again.
Yesterday evening, three Manchester Metropolitan University students were mugged in Hulme Park whilst playing the popular mobile app. The assailant demanded all three of their phones, and one wallet, at knife point, leaving the three shaken, but safe.
If you’re familiar with Hulme Park, you’ll know it’s only ten minutes away from Manchester Met’s All Saints campus, and just across the road from the Birley Campus Halls of Residence. Thus, it is Manchester Met students who will be at the most risk of theft in the coming weeks while the game continues to dominate both the gaming and real worlds.
Humanity Hallows talked to one of the victims, who wanted to warn fellow players in the area and in Manchester as a whole:
“Please, guys, just be careful, you’re probably not gonna be eaten by a giant Gyarados but this can be serious. We were in a group of three in the park while it was still daylight when it happened so please don’t think these things will make it safe.”
Police have been posting warnings about the potential dangers of the app since the title’s release. However, the game requires players to walk while looking at their phone and therefore creates perfect opportunities for theft.
Greater Manchester Police have also released a full article of the risks linked to Pokémon GO, which includes in-depth safety tips that you can read here.
Having reported the crime to the police, the three victims passed on some useful information to any other Pokémon GO players that might be worried following the news:
“Please genuinely be aware of your surroundings and stay safe. If you’re going hunting in a park, try to stay in the middle where there are lots of people and don’t linger anywhere for too long with your phones out, particularly if you’re in shaded areas or near gates.”
One of the victims was keen to point out, “Just because it happened to me doesn’t mean it will happen to everyone” but was quick to remind other Pokémon GO players that, “We were relatively lucky that nobody was hurt and we didn’t have more money on us but someone else may not be as lucky.”
Police have requested that anybody who has any information that might assist with this crime or similar crimes in the area contact them on the non-emergency number 101. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. However, the police are keen to remind the public that if anyone is in immediate danger they should contact 999 as usual.
Stay safe Pokefans.
Will the apparent increase in crime caused by Pokémon GO put you off the mobile app? Let us know @Holmesblogs and @HumanityHallows
Featured image: WendyWei.pexels With the most anticipated night of the year right around the corner, the big question is looming: where are you going to celebrate it? Whether you dread it or count down the days, are new to the Manchester nightlife scene or are a regular, we’ve got your New Year’s Eve plans sorted….
By Georgia Robinson Featured image and gallery: Ruby Sharp Get one step ahead of your 2025 aesthetic and plan your outfits for the new year with this guide to all the trends we expect to see next year. Why not jazz up your wardrobe with trending accessories or browse Depop and Vinted for a pre-loved…
Featured image and gallery: Kaitlyn Brockley The rumble of trains passing through Piccadilly station, the hollers of touts (“tickets, buy or sell?”) and security (“have your IDs ready”), and the excitable chatter of gig-goers all audibly backdrop the outskirts of Manchester’s Mayfield Depot this dark, damp evening. Leaving the outside chill and travelling along the…
Featured image and gallery: Leo Woollison Crook Angela Cheveau and Kate Carne were crowned winners of the 2024 QuietManDave Prize on Friday. The short-form writing prize is held biennially to honour the memory of the much-loved and well-known Manchester writer and critic Dave Murray, who passed away in 2019. The writers were each awarded £1000…
Leave a reply