A KNIFE-WIELDING man threatened a woman in front of a child in a terrifying late-night raid on her home earlier this week.
Now police are appealing for witnesses to the attack which took place on Wednesday in Earley.
Police said that around 10.50pm on Wednesday, December 19, the victim – a woman in her forties – looked out of a window of her home in Anderson Avenue to see a person standing at the door kicking it.
She made her way towards the door and shouted for the man to go away and stated she would call the police. However, the man was demanding that the woman hand over possessions and money to him.
When she opened the door she saw two further men coming towards her. Although she attempted to close the door, police said that a struggle took place and the three men pushed it open and pushed her backwards.
The victim was then threatened by a man holding a knife. One of the victim’s sons came downstairs and they managed to push the offenders out of the house and they fled in the direction of Church Street.
Nothing was stolen during the incident.
All of the offenders are black and were wearing face coverings. The first man is 6ft tall and of medium build. He was wearing a grey Puffa-style jacket, black tracksuit trousers, a black beanie hat, dark coloured gloves and was holding a knife.
The second offender is 5ft 9ins tall and of medium build. He was wearing black tracksuit trousers.
The third offender is 5ft 7ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing a black Puffa-style jacket and black trousers.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Craig Cole, of Newbury Force CID, said: “Detectives are investigating what was a distressing incident in which offenders entered a property and threatened the occupant with a knife.
“I would like to speak to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area at around the time of the offence on Wednesday or who saw anything which may assist our investigation.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting the reference 43180387276 or make a report online.
If you do not want to speak to police call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
