**Police Appeal for Information After Electric Bike Robbery Involving 14-Year-Old in Cwmbran**
Police in Gwent are urgently appealing for information following a daylight robbery in which a 14-year-old boy was forcibly removed from his electric bike by two unknown men. The incident, which occurred on Monday, 14 April, has left the local community in Cwmbran shocked, as officers investigate the circumstances surrounding the theft and seek help from the public.
The robbery took place in Taliesin, Forgeside, Cwmbran, between 3pm and 3.45pm. According to police reports, two teenage boys aged 14 were approached by a pair of men, one of whom assaulted one of the boys, pushing him off his black and white Talaria Sting electric scrambler bike. The suspects then took possession of the bike, fleeing the scene before officers arrived.
Notably, officers disclosed that the men are believed to have arrived and departed in a black Mercedes-Benz CLA. This detail has been highlighted in the police appeal, as it could help witnesses or those with relevant footage recall seeing the vehicle in the area at the time of the incident.
The force has released a description of the first suspect, stating he is of large build, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, with ginger hair and a noticeable moustache. At the time of the robbery, he was reportedly dressed in a distinctive light blue and dark blue panelled North Face tracksuit. The second assailant is described as shorter in stature and of slim build, with police noting that he was wearing a black balaclava and a grey tracksuit, evidently in an attempt to conceal his identity.
Understandably, incidents such as these cause considerable concern among residents, particularly as they involve children targeted in broad daylight. Police are reminding the public about the importance of safety and vigilance, especially as the use of electric bikes continues to grow among young people. The crime’s brazen nature and the involvement of a luxury vehicle have only heightened local anxieties and the urgency of the search.
A spokesperson for Gwent Police stated, “We’re appealing to anyone who witnessed the robbery, may have relevant CCTV or dash cam footage, recognises the description of the two suspects or the car, or knows the location of the bike to get in touch with us as a matter of priority.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with officers keen to locate the stolen Talaria Sting electric bike and identify those responsible. The force is encouraging anyone with details, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to come forward. Individuals can contact Gwent Police directly via their website or by sending a direct message on the force’s official Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) accounts, referencing log number 2500118222.
Alternatively, members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can do so by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Police have reiterated that all information received will be treated seriously and could prove vital in bringing the offenders to justice and restoring a sense of security to the community.
As this ongoing investigation continues to unfold, the police are committed to updating the community and are hopeful that the public’s assistance will help lead to a swift resolution. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in tackling crime. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to reach out to the authorities without delay.