Police in witness appeal after two estate robberies

DETECTIVES LINKING INCIDENTS INVOLVING GROUP OF YOUTHS

A MAN was assaulted and a boy pushed off his bike in a series of robberies on a Leicester estate.

Detectives are investigating two robberies - which they believe are linked - in the Beaumont Leys area of the city which happened within hours of each other.

Investigators want to hear from anyone who saw a group of youths in the area at the time of the incidents, on Sunday, October 4.

A police spokesman said: “At about 6.30pm, a 14-year-old boy was approached by a group of around 10 youths at a play park in Glovers Walk.

“They pushed him off his bike and one of the group took the bike – a black Carrera Vengence – and rode off towards Strasbourg Drive.

“The victim was not injured during the incident. The group are believed to be about 16 and 17 years old.”

The second robbery happened in Strasbourg Drive at about 8pm.

The police spokesman said: “A 26-year-old man was cycling along Strasbourg Drive when a group of eight to 10 teenagers surrounded him and assaulted him.

“His black and white Cannondale mountain bike was taken and he suffered minor injuries as a result of the assault.”

Police have stepped up patrols in the area since the robberies to help reassure the public.

Detective Constable Kristina Hailstone is appealing for witnesses to get in touch.

“I would like to speak to anyone who saw a group of teenagers in Beaumont Leys – particularly in Strasbourg Drive and the surrounding area – on Sunday evening,” she said. “Did you notice anything unusual or suspicious in the way they were behaving? Did you see either of these incidents occur?”

Det Con Hailstone added: “I’m particularly appealing to dog walkers and anyone with a dashcam installed in their vehicle. Any information you have, no matter how insignificant you think it is, could help my investigation.”

Anyone with information should call the police 101 number or get in touch with detectives using the force website. Alternatively, call the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111.