UPDATE: MAN, AGED 24, ARRESTED AFTER BALACLAVA GANG STRIKE IN BUSHY PARK
FULL POLICE STATEMENT:
“On Thursday 26th June, Police were called to 3 males on electric bikes in Bushy Park wearing balaclavas at about 1pm.
“They were seen pushing another bike which we believe may have been stolen.
“Police engaged in a short chase and as we opened our door on the police vehicle, one of the males cycled into it, thus allowing us to detain and arrest him on suspicion of theft.
“He was 24 years old. He has been interviewed and released under investigation pending us identifying the owner of the bike.”
Earlier story:
Police arrested a man and recovered a stolen bicycle following an urgent report of a gang of men wearing balaclavas stealing bicycles in Bushy Park, Teddington Town has learned.
A spokesperson said: “Officers on the Safer Parks Team attended Bushy Park this afternoon following a report of males in balaclavas stealing bicycles.
“They were able to locate the males and one of them made off on a stolen bicycle.
“The officers chased and arrested this male & recovered the bicycle.”
The worrying incident yesterday (Thursday) follows confirmation by the Metropolitan Police that dedicated police teams working across the Royal Parks will be disbanded in September because of budget cuts.
Teddington Town has requested more details of the incident from the police.