Local Priorities Robbery Message

I wanted to provide you an update regarding robbery, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Officers were called to a series of linked robberies yesterday evening at approximately 1955hrs at locations across Richmond town centre. A number of victims were approached by a group of 3 males, who intimated violence would be used if mobile phones were not handed over.

Officers responding located the suspects with the assistance of the initial information passed by the victims. The suspects then attempted to run from officers, and with the assistance of an MPS dog unit, all 3 were located and arrested, including one who had hidden underneath a car.

The stolen property from the victims has been recovered and restored to them. All 3 suspects remain in police custody as the investigation progresses, being led by the South West BCU robbery investigation team.

We will continue to tackle robbery in your local area. While we are investigating and arresting those responsible, please consider following the below advice to keep yourself and your property safe:  

• Do not leave your phone, tablet or other digital goods unattended, out of sight or on a table.  

• Be aware of your surroundings and only use your phone when it is safe to do so. 

• Put your phone away when you have finished using it.  

• Secure your phone by choosing a strong pin or password 

• Keep a note of your IMEU number (to access, type *#06# on your phone keypad) 

• Plan your route, especially if you are going somewhere you have not been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets and walkways. Move with purpose and appear confident.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey