Fake Cops Snatch Car After Spraying Driver in the Face with Mystery Substance
Police are hunting two men who pulled a scam on a silver Skoda Superb in Fleets Lane, making off with the car after a shocking attack on the driver. The brazen daylight robbery happened just before 6pm on Monday 15 January 2024.
Blue Light Trick: Driver Forced Out and Car Stolen
Witnesses say an Audi with flashing blue lights pulled up behind the Skoda. Two men jumped out, claiming to be police officers. They demanded the driver’s licence and ordered everyone out of the car before insisting on the keys.
One of the bogus cops then climbed into the Skoda and sped off, leaving the stunned occupants behind.
Driver Sprayed with Stunning Substance but Escapes Serious Injury
The victim, a man in his 20s, was sprayed in the face with a substance believed to be ammonium-based. Fortunately, he did not suffer serious harm, but police are treating the attack seriously.
Car Found and Two London Men Arrested
Dorset Police located the stolen Skoda early next morning parked on Whitchurch Avenue. It has since been seized for forensic examination.
Two suspects, aged 33 and 45 from London, were arrested on suspicion of robbery and impersonating police officers.
“We take reports of robbery involving violence very seriously and will fully investigate to bring suspects to justice and reassure our communities,” said Detective Inspector Darren Moores of BCP CID.
“If anyone saw anything suspicious in Fleets Lane on the evening of 15 January or near Whitchurch Avenue before 8am on 16 January, please come forward. Any home CCTV or dashcam footage could be vital.”
Witnesses urged to call Dorset Police on 101 quoting occurrence 55240007639, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via Crimestoppers-uk.org.
