Bike-Theft Suspects Smashed Off-Duty Cop Over Head With Bolt Croppers

Police are hunting these two attempted bike-theft suspects after an off-duty policeman was struck over the head with a pair of heavy-duty bolt croppers outside Vauxhall railway station.

They are believed to be part of a gang of four fare-dodging youths, who exited the station without paying and headed straight for the commuter bike rack outside.

It was 10.50am on July 17 when the officer, aged 57, noticed the group leave via the station barriers without using a ticket or Oyster card.

He followed them group and noticed they approached bicycles that were chained to a nearby bike rack.

One of the suspects then produced a pair of bolt croppers - at which point the victim phoned 999 and identified himself to the group as a police officer.



The youth hit the officer over the head with the bolt croppers, knicking him to the ground before all four suspects made off towards South Lambeth Road. 



The victim was taken to hospital for his head injury, but was discharged later that day.



A 15-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the investigation on July 23 and has been bailed to return to a south London police in late September pending further enquiries. 



Detective Constable Sarah Francis, from Lambeth CID, who is investigating the incident said: “If you recognise any of these people, or indeed witnessed this incident then please get in touch. 



“This attack happened in broad daylight and resulted in the victim receiving hospital treatment.

I urge members of the community to come forward if they have any information with regards to the incident to help us catch those responsible.”



Anyone with information about this incident should contact DC Sarah Francis from Lambeth CID on 020 8649 2191, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.