A robber has been jailed after attacking a man who was enjoying drinks while visiting from Hong Kong.
At around 11.20pm on Friday, July 12, 2024, the victim, in his 30s, had been out enjoying the city centre before walking back to his hotel.
He was approached on Back George Street by Ahmed Elgamodi (27) who offered him cannabis.
Following a short chat, Elgamodi violently threw the man to the floor and assaulted him. The victim suffered swelling to his head.
The offender then grabbed the victim’s phone and ran off.
Police were called and an immediate investigation was launched, with CCTV being obtained by attending officers. Within two hours, an officer was able to identify Elgamodi, who was on a pedal bike in the city centre.
Following a short pursuit in which he refused to stop, Elgamodi was formally arrested for robbery offences. He was convicted of the robbery at Manchester Crown Court on January 14.
Elgamodi, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to five years and two months for the robbery, with an additional two years for being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine, following a separate investigation.
A Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) also excludes him from parts of Manchester for eight years.
PC Jamie Acton, from GMP’s Manchester Central Neighbourhood Team, said: “This disgusting attack on a visitor to our city is not something we will ever tolerate, and I am glad that Elgamodi was quickly identified and arrested following the robbery.
“The investigation into this incident was in conjunction with one into drug supply across Manchester, and ensured a seven-year sentencing. I hope Elgamodi takes time to think about his actions while in the four walls of a prison cell.”