Police are appealing for witnesses after a robbery in Basingstoke on Saturday, November 14.
Between 4.15pm and 4.30pm a 15-year-old boy was walking along the white path between Pack Lane and Winchester Road.
He was approached by two men who assaulted him and stole his phone.
The first man is described as:
- Black
- Skinny build
- Wearing a dark jacket, dark trousers and a hat which covered his face
The second man is described as:
- Stocky build
- Wearing jeans or light blue sports trousers and a hat that covered his face
PC Susan Petts, of the Basingstoke Targeted Patrol Team, said: “This was an unprovoked attack against an innocent member of the public who was minding his own business.
“Residents are reminded to stick to well lit pathways when walking at night and report any suspicious people to police.”
- You will be safest in bright, well lit and busy areas.
- Try to look and act confident – look like you know where you are going. If you are wandering around with a map, looking confused, you are more likely to be targeted.
- Try to keep valuables, such as laptop computers or jewellery, out of sight. Be particularly careful with your mobile phone – they are high-value items and are often very desirable to robbers or pickpockets.
- If someone tries to take something from you, it might be better to let them take it, rather than risk being injured in a confrontation.
- If you decide to defend yourself, remember that your attacker might be stronger than you – it is often better just to shout loudly and run away!
- Shout 'fire' rather than 'help' – it can get better results.
- If you use a wheelchair, keep your things beside you rather than at the back of the chair, where they easily could be taken.
- When out walking or jogging, don’t listen to a personal stereo – you might not be able to hear someone approaching.
Can you help?
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Petts at Basingstoke police station on 101 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, please call 0845 045 45 45.
