Teenage boys assaulted and robbed in busy town centre street

Police hope 'good samaritans' that came to their aid can provide important witness evidence

Author: Jonathan RichardsPublished 9th Aug 2022

Police are appealing for Good Samaritans who helped after a robbery and assault in Reading to come forward.

The incident happened outside Davina’s off licence in Broad Street at about 2.30pm yesterday (8/8).

Two boys, both aged 17, were approached by a group of men, who offered to sell them AirPod headphones.

The boys bought the headphones, but then realised the equipment was broken so asked for their money back.

One of the men then stole one of the victim’s mobile phones, a dark blue iPhone 12.

The group then assaulted both victims, by kicking and punching them.

The offenders ran off in the direction of West Street.

Descriptions

The first offender is described as white, of large build and about 5ft 10ins tall. He was wearing an orange t-shirt and shorts.

The second offender was white, in his late teens, of medium build, with short brown hair and about 6ft 2ins tall. He was wearing a dark blue coloured t-shirt and shorts and was carrying a shopping bag.

The third offender was white, in his late teens, of large build, with short brown hair with a skin fade, and about 5ft 5ins tall. He was wearing a light blue coloured t-shirt and shorts.

The victims sustained injuries and had to be treated at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, but have since been discharged from hospital.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Jen Cox said:

“I believe that lots of members of public witnessed this incident and that some may have even chased the suspects from the scene. We would urge these Good Samaritans to please get in touch as soon as possible, because their information could help our investigation.

“The easiest way to contact us is by visiting a police station, calling 101, or leaving your information on our website, quoting the investigation reference number 43220352869.

“Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.