Moped Robbers Target Cyclists Again in Richmond Park
Bike stolen marking resumption of spate of crimes seen last year
Police patrolling in Richmond Park
Officers are appealing for witnesses after another cyclist in Richmond Park was robbed by moped drivers over the long bank holiday weekend. Two men took off with the unnamed cyclist’s bike after the incident on 2 June.
Police have confirmed the men followed the cyclist along Dark Hill towards Broomfield Hill on a moped before cutting in front of the cyclist and snatching the bike. They are now appealing for anyone with information or footage to come forward.
Cyclists were plagued by a wave of machete robberies in the park in 2021, including an alleged attack on professional cyclist Alexandar Richardson. The bike thefts drove scared cyclists away from the park, while others only went in groups. No connection has been reported between the robberies last year and the latest incident.
Social media users have now voiced their fears and urged locals to be alert. Local group Richmond Park Cyclists tweeted, “Please stay safe and look out for other cyclists, especially those cycling on their own who these types of criminals tend to target. Hopefully this is a one-off and not a return to the violent attacks of last year.”
Cycling club Kingston Wheelers wrote, “Another robbery in Richmond Park. Please keep an eye out for the stolen bike and stay safe.” Stolen Ride also urged people to be “extra careful in the area”.
A spokesperson for the Met Police said, “We are appealing for any witnesses, dash-cam or head-cam footage following a robbery in #RichmondPark near to Ladderstile gate. The incident occurred on 02/06/22 at 16:25, where two persons on a moped followed a cyclist along Dark hill towards Broomfield Hill.
“The moped then cut in front of the cyclist and took the bike. They then made off carrying the bike, believed down Broomfield Hill.
“The suspects were described as approx 25 years old, male, wearing a black coat, grey jogging bottoms, with a white or light grey helmet.”
Officers are asking anyone with information to call 101 and quote the reference number 0406215/22.
Charlotte Lilywhite - Local Democracy Reporter
June 8, 2022