Teen Thugs Busted After Series of Riverside Park Robberies
Two Southampton teens, aged 14 and 15, have been arrested over a spate of robberies and assaults in Riverside Park between 2 and 3 January. Police suspect the boys of four robberies, one attempted robbery, plus two more robberies and an assault from separate incidents.
Both lads were questioned and later released under investigation as enquiries continue. Officers are hunting for key witnesses and appealing to the public for help.
Victims Attacked, Stolen From in Broad Daylight
The trouble kicked off around 5.30pm on 2 January when an 18-year-old man was jumped by a gang of five males – some on bikes and e-scooters – while walking through Riverside Park from Cobden Bridge. They threatened him, snatched his AirPods, and left him with a jaw injury.
Police are especially keen to find a woman in a burgundy coat who spoke to the victim after the attack and urged him to run away. “Was this you?” police ask.
Multiple Victims Targeted Over Two Days
- 3 Jan, early evening: Three men, aged 18, 20, and 22, were approached by up to a dozen males, some on e-scooters and bikes. One victim was chased off after a threat; another had his necklace, glasses, and rings stolen.
- 3 Jan, 5.57pm: A 13-year-old boy walking over Cobden Bridge was followed and robbed of his scooter, Canada Goose coat, and a blue bag with a Nokia phone near St Denys Road.
- 3 Jan, 11.30pm: Two men, aged 20 and 21, were assaulted near the children’s cycle training area. The 20-year-old lost cash, while the 21-year-old suffered a broken eye socket and nose.
Masked Gangs in Dark Clothes on the Loose – Police Urge Public to Speak Up
On every occasion, the attackers wore dark clothing and face masks. Police want anyone who saw anything to call 101 quoting reference 44210003223. Your tip could help catch these dangerous youths!
