Police appeal following moped gunpoint robbery

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Police are appealing for witnesses after two men were robbed at gunpoint by two thugs on a moped in Beckenham last Sunday.

The incident occurred on Hayes Lane at approximately 2.15pm on Sunday, June 24 and has been linked to another moped robbery which took place less than an hour before  in Lewisham.

The victims of the Beckenham robbery – two males aged 17 and 58 – were walking along Romanhurst Gardens in the direction of Kingwood Avenue when two male suspects approached them on a moped.

Both suspects dismounted and dragged the 58-year-old victim into the road before snatching a necklace he was wearing. At this point, a bus stopped in the road and some passengers attempted to intervene.

One suspect produced a firearm and threatened the 17-year-old boy to surrender the necklace. The two suspects then rode off on the moped towards Shortlands Road.

In the Lewisham incident, police were called to Albion Way at around 1.30pm. Two male victims, aged 26 and 32, were walking through a car park when they noticed two males on mopeds.

They drove towards the victims and mounted the pavement. The victims shouted for help but the suspects reached into their bags and took hold of something which was not seen by the victims.

In fear of the suspects being in possession of a weapon, the 26-year-old man handed over his watch and ring and the suspects fled.

The suspects in both incidents are described as wearing black helmets, tracksuits and gloves.

Detective Sergeant Miles Fuller, from the CID in Bromley, said: “Although our investigation is in its early stages, the two incidents are being treated as linked and I would urge any witnesses get in touch.

“The victims have understandably been left terrified by this violent behaviour and we are working tirelessly to find those responsible.

“These were brazen offences in broad daylight and I would advise all members of the public to be vigilant of thieves who may be on the look out to steal items of jewellery that are easy to grab and steal.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bromley CID on 101 quoting reference 4489/24Jun. Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org