A TEENAGER’S bike was stolen during a robbery that took place in a Lower Earley underpass.
The incident took place on Monday, January 29 around 6.40pm, although Thames Valley Police have only just released details and are now appealing for witnesses.
The force said that the 16-year-old and his two friends, aged 16 and 17, were using the subway under Rushey Way, which leads from the rear of the Asda superstore to Chatton Close.
They were approached by two males, who asked the trio if they had any money or cannabis. When the victim replied he didn’t, the robbers said they would damage his bike.
One of the offenders, an older youth, then pushed the victim.
The offender had his right hand in his body warmer pocket and threatened him: the victim said he was led to believe that the offender may have had a weapon, though none was seen.
The youth then took the victim’s bike and walked off with it with the other offender.
About 30 minutes later, two people matching the description of the offenders were spotted by another underpass in Rushey Way, close to Gipsy Lane and it is believed that they had the stolen bike with them.
The youth who threatened the victim was mixed race, 17 or 18, about 5ft 8ins tall and of average build.
He was wearing a black body-warmer with a grey hoodie underneath and had a black scarf pulled across his face. He had a deep voice and local accent.
The second offender was a white male of unknown age. He was of average build and was wearing a dark grey coat with a grey hoodie underneath. His face was covered.
The stolen bicycle is a dark blue Carrera mountain bike with white front forks and black handlebars. It has parts from different bikes on it, having been repaired many times.
Investigating officer, PC Ross Kowald, of Loddon Valley CID, said: “We would like to hear from anyone who has information that could lead to the apprehension of the two offenders and the recovery of the victim’s bicycle.
“If you have any details which you think could help our appeal, please call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101, quoting reference 43180030254.”
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
