**Pensioner Threatened at Knifepoint During Daylight Robbery in Newport**
A 69-year-old Newport man has spoken of his shock and fear after being robbed at knifepoint in a broad daylight incident that left him badly shaken. The theft occurred just before 1pm on Tuesday, 10 June, as the pensioner walked with his electric bicycle beneath the George Street Bridge in Newport city centre.
According to statements provided by the victim’s daughter, Holly James Gillum, her father – known as Mark – was confronted by two individuals, a man and a woman both estimated to be in their late twenties to mid-thirties. Both suspects were on pushbikes when they approached Mark, and reports state that he was threatened with violence unless he handed over his bike. In particular, the assailants told him they would stab him if he did not comply.
Mark, who is well-known amongst locals for his daily cycling routes throughout Newport’s neighbourhoods, tried to remain calm throughout the ordeal. His daughter explained that he apologised repeatedly and attempted to defuse the situation as best he could, even as he reluctantly surrendered his electric bike to the culprits. “It has absolutely petrified him,” Ms Gillum told reporters, noting that her father has always been a friendly, unobtrusive member of the community. “He cycles every day, keeps to himself, and greets everybody he passes.”
Shaken, Mark made his way to the local police station to report the crime. Fortunately, owing to a tracking device installed on his bicycle, officers were able to swiftly locate the stolen bike within Newport town and return it to him, even as he remained at the station processing the traumatic experience.
A spokesperson from Gwent Police confirmed that an investigation is underway, detailing the timeline of events. Police received a call regarding the robbery at approximately 1.10pm. “Officers attended the scene following reports that a 69-year-old man had his electric bicycle stolen by force,” said the spokesperson, who reassured the public that no injuries were reported during the incident. “We have been carrying out enquiries, reviewing area surveillance footage, and are actively working to identify those responsible.”
The police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the robbery, or who may have pertinent information, to come forward. Community members can contact Gwent Police via telephone, social media, or through their official website, with assurances that all reports will be treated with confidentiality. Alternatively, anonymous reports may be made to Crimestoppers.
Incidents such as this highlight ongoing concerns over public safety within Newport city centre, particularly for older residents who use local paths and riverfront routes. Despite the positive outcome in recovering the stolen bike, Mark’s experience has sent ripples of unease through the community.
Local advocacy groups and residents have called for increased police patrols and improved street lighting in popular pedestrian zones, especially following a second unrelated spate of violence reported the previous weekend in Newport. Authorities continue to review all available evidence, combing through CCTV and gathering witness statements to advance their investigation.
For now, Mark’s ordeal stands as a sobering reminder of the vulnerability faced by those simply going about their day. The quick recovery of his bike brings some relief, but the psychological effects of such encounters can linger long after property is returned. Community leaders urge anyone with information to assist the investigation, reinforcing the message that public cooperation is vital in keeping Newport’s streets safe for all.