Warning after spate of robberies

9 February 2011, 11:49 | Updated: 18 February 2011, 16:38

Detectives in Luton are warning the public to be on their guard after a spate of robberies has been reported to them in the Moor Path area of the town.

Since December 9th seven robberies have been recorded where a group of three to four Asian men in their late teens to early 20s have stopped members of the public and asked for cigarettes and when the victim has refused they are robbed.

The latest robbery was reported to the police on January 26 when a 26 year old man was walking along Moor Path at 6.30pm. He was stopped by the group and assaulted before they took his mobile telephone from his pocket.

Detectives believe these offences are linked as in all cases the victims have given similar descriptions of their assailants and each time the offenders have restrained and searched the victim’s pockets, taking mobiles, cash and wallets.

PC Surfraz Hussain, of Luton’s Robbery Squad, said: “These have been frightening experiences for the victims involved.  During the last incident one of the offenders head butted the victim in the face leaving him with a 2cm cut across his nose.  I would urge the public to help us trace those responsible for these crimes before they become even more violent.”

He added: “I would warn members of the public to take extra care when they are out and about and remember to register mobile telephones, MP3 players and other belongings FREE on the National Phone Register, which can be found at www.immobilise.com or www.menduk.org.  The chances of a lost or stolen item being returned are far increased if owners take the time to record them in this way.”

If anyone has information relating to these robberies they can contact PC Hussain at Luton Police Station, in confidence, on 01582 394265, or text information to 07786 200011, or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.