Thames Valley Police is appealing for information in connection with a conspiracy to kidnap in Kendrick Road, Reading.
At around 10pm on Saturday (21/4) a girl aged 17 was approached by four men carrying knives and metal poles and wearing balaclavas
One of these men made threats to the girl, demanding information as to the whereabouts of another girl.
After refusing to give any information to the offenders, they made further threats before leaving.
Investigating office Detective Constable Nathan Adby of the Domestic Abusive Investigation Unit at Reading Police Station said: “This was a frightening and brazen offence, and we are treating it as a conspiracy to kidnap, because the offenders made threats to the victim, demanding the whereabouts of another girl.
“The offenders were armed with a machete, lock knife, large kitchen knife and extendable baton.
“I hope to hear from anyone who lives nearby who may have seen suspicious activity between 9.30pm and 11.30pm, or who may have information relating to this incident to contact me on the non-emergency number, 101, quoting reference number 43180120137.
“If anybody was driving through the area and has dash cam footage, please also get in contact.”
“I would like to reassure the public that we believe this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider public. A thorough investigation is underway, including house to house and CCTV enquiries.”
A 16-year-old boy from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of conspiring to kidnap, and another 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of conspiring to kidnap and possession of an offensive weapon.
A 19-year-old man, also from Reading, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to kidnap, conspiracy to commit GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.
They have all been released on police bail.
If you have any information relating to this case, please call 101 quoting reference ‘43180120137’, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
