By Police appeal after attempted robbery in Oxford
Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery in Oxford.
The incident occurred Monday the 23rd of March, on the tow path between Iffley Lock, and the Eastern Bypass overpass.
A woman in her forties was cycling along the tow path when she was targeted and her route blocked by a group of eight young males and females.
She was approached by one of the males from the group, who grabbed hold of the basket on the bicycle.
The rest of the group then circled around her.
Another or the males then grabbed the woman’s bag from out of the basket on the bicycle, removed the lock and walked away with it.
The woman then attempted to leave, when she felt someone stopping her leaving.
She then felt a strong blow to the back of her head.
Fortunately she was still wearing her bike helmet which protected her from injury.
Two females from the group began being aggressive to the victim and threatened her with violence.
The group then left and the woman was able to cycle away. They were last seen walking along the tow path towards Oxford.
The offenders are all described as youths.
One of the perpetrators was a white male around 5ft 6ins tall of slim build with blond coloured hair. He was wearing a grey hooded top with the hood up.
Other descriptions are as follows:
A mixed race male, around 5ft 8ins tall of slim build. He has brown hair that was short and curly. He was wearing a dark hooded top.
A white female, around 5ft 5ins tall of slim build. She had shoulder length strawberry blonde hair. She was wearing a white or light grey baggy top.
A white female, around 5ft 6ins tall of slim build. She had black hair.
Investigating officer PC Oli Dalby of Oxford CID, said:
“This was a distressing incident for the victim and it was only because of her bike helmet that she was not injured.
This is very intimidating behaviour and is not acceptable at any time.
Fortunately, nothing was stolen but the intent was there.
If you have any information about this incident or know who may have been involved, please contact the non-emergency number 101, quoting the reference 43200095893.
If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Contact Gi Oxford
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