Appeal for witnesses to robbery – Reading

Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to a robbery in Reading.

Between 7.30pm and 8pm on Friday 21 February, three men approached the victim outside Reading College on Kings Road. One of the three men punched the victim and another threatened him with a machete-style knife. The offenders then stole the victim’s bike and cycled down Orts Road.

The victim, who is in his twenties, did not sustain injuries.

The stolen bike is a Specialized brand, the frame is off-white in colour with the ‘Specialized’ name in blue. The seat is purple in colour and says ‘LH’ on the top and ‘Collective’ on the back of the seat. There are stickers on the bike forks that read ‘Whistle’ in white and yellow.

The bike has also been modified to be pedal-assisted electric and has a 48V battery fitted in the frame. There is also ‘Rock Hopper’ written in blue on the rear end of the bike.

The first offender is described as black, around 6ft tall, medium to large build with a fair amount of hair, dressed in all black and a balaclava on his head. The second offender is described as of mixed heritage, around 6ft 2ins tall, slim build, with no facial hair and a big afro. He was wearing a black jacket. The third offender is described as of mixed heritage, 5ft 11ins, large build, with black plaited hair at ear length and dressed in all black.

Investigating officer PC Lara Conboy said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to please come forward.

“If anyone was driving in the area during this time and has dash-cam footage, please get in touch.

“Anyone with information can call 101 or make an online report, via our website, quoting crime reference number 43250086724.

“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

HA