POLICE are warning members of the public to be vigilant after a series of violent robberies along a disused bus link between a Luton estate and Houghton Regis.
Four robberies took place on or close to the abandoned bus lane between Pastures Way in Lewsey Farm and Parkside Drive in Houghton Regis within the space of three days earlier this month.
On September 15 between 10.30pm and 11pm a 33-year-old man was walking home along the link when he was approached by an unknown person wearing dark clothing. The offender was armed with a hammer and demanded the victim hand over his mobile and cash. The victim, who was assaulted and suffered cuts and bruises, didn’t have any money and the offender left with the scene with the victim’s mobile and keys.
The second incident happened at 6.30pm the following day on the recreation ground in Parkside Drive behind the Dog and Duck Public House. Two 19-year-old victims were with friends when they were approached by four men who engaged them in conversation and began to listening to music on one of their phones while using the other victim’s headphones. When they left the victims asked for their property back and the mobile was returned but the offenders had removed the battery, sim and media card and taken the headphones.
The third incident happened 30 minutes later when a 17-year-old was grabbed from behind by a gang of four who searched him and took his iPhone. The victim was pushed to the ground and the offenders fled the scene, one on a silver mountain bike.
The final incident took place at 7.20pm on September 17 when a 19-year-old was walking a field between Lewsey Farm and Houghton Regis listening to music through her headphone via her mobile. She was pushed to the ground and hit around the head a number of times. The offender stole the victim’s mobile and Sony headphones before running from the scene towards Lewsey Farm.
Four men have been arrested in connection with the September 16 incidents and released on police bail.
Anyone with information should call police on 01582 473239, on 101 or text information to 07786 200011.