Dorset Police news site

Detectives are appealing for information after three people were arrested in connection with a series of reported robberies in Bournemouth.

Dorset Police received a series of reports relating to suspected robberies on teenage victims in the area of Redhill Park on the afternoon of Tuesday 4 April 2023.

At around 2pm it was reported that three older teenagers approached a 13-year-old boy in the park and attempted to steal his scooter.

It was further reported that around 4.30pm another 13-year-old boy was assaulted and robbed by a group of five or six teenagers.

At around 5.20pm a 14-year-old boy was allegedly robbed in the park.

A further incident occurred at around 5.45pm in Brassey Road. It was reported that a 17-year-old boy was assaulted by five teenagers and a silver necklace was stolen.

Following enquiries by officers, three boys were arrested in connection with the incidents on the evening of Tuesday 4 April 2023 and a knife was reportedly recovered.

A 15-year-old boy from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of robbery and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. Another 15-year-old boy from Bournemouth and a 14-year-old local boy were also arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Detective Inspector Darren Moores, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Detectives have launched a full investigation into this series of incidents, and we would urge anyone with information that might assist our enquiries to please contact us.

“We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed any of the reported robberies, or who may have captured any relevant footage. We would also like to speak to anyone who may have been the subject of similar encounters in the area during recent days.

“We fully recognise the impact of this kind of reported offending on local communities, and particularly young people in the area. I would like to reassure members of the public that there will be an increased policing presence in the vicinity in coming days and officers can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230051885. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.