Knifemen Target Girl in Shocking Kidnap Plot in Reading
Thames Valley Police are hunting four masked men who chased a 17-year-old girl in Kendrick Road, Reading, in a terrifying failed kidnap attempt.
Masked Men Armed with Knives and Batons
At around 10pm on Saturday, April 21, four men armed with a machete, lock knife, large kitchen knife, and an extendable baton cornered the teen. They wore balaclavas and demanded information about the whereabouts of another girl. When the victim refused to talk, they threatened her further before fleeing the scene.
Detective Constable Nathan Adby from the Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit called the attack “brazen” and confirmed the force is treating it as a conspiracy to kidnap.
Three Arrested and Released on Bail
- A 16-year-old boy from Reading was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to kidnap.
- Another 16-year-old boy was arrested for conspiracy to kidnap and possession of an offensive weapon.
- A 19-year-old man faces charges of conspiracy to kidnap, conspiracy to commit GBH with intent, and possession of an offensive weapon.
All three suspects have been released on police bail while investigations continue.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Dashcam Footage
Officers urge anyone living near Kendrick Road or passing through between 9.30pm and 11.30pm on April 21 to come forward with information. DC Adby said:
“If you have dashcam footage or saw anything suspicious, please contact us on 101 quoting reference 43180120137. This appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.”
Witnesses can also report anonymously through Crimestoppers. The investigation remains active, with house-to-house enquiries and CCTV checks ongoing.
