Boy, 16, threatened with machete in Chichester robbery - Multiple similar incidents being linked

A series of robberies against young people in Chichester are believed to be linked, police have said.
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Police have released images of youths, sought in connection with 'about seven incidents', which have occurred in the Chichester area since October, with the latest offence taking place last Thursday (December 3).

According to Sussex Police, at about 3.20pm that day, a 16-year-old boy was approached in Avenue De Chartres by four youths and 'threatened with what has been described as a machete'.

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They took his Apple AirPods and ran off from the scene, police said.

Police want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex PolicePolice want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex Police
Police want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex Police

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Sam Treagust, said: “There have been a number of robberies recently in Chichester whereby young people have been targeted.

"Items stolen during these offences include phones, AirPods and expensive clothing. We believe the suspects for these offences are using the rail network to travel, and we appeal to the public for help in identifying those responsible.”

Chief Inspector Jon Carter, the district commander, said 'officers from all teams' are working with other forces and partners to prevent further offences, 'and bring those responsible to justice'.

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He added: "I know that these offences will be causing alarm for people who reside in the area, or travel through it.

If you have suspicions about a person or group of people, call 101. Photo: Sussex PoliceIf you have suspicions about a person or group of people, call 101. Photo: Sussex Police
If you have suspicions about a person or group of people, call 101. Photo: Sussex Police

“Officers will be operating both overtly and covertly in the locality. Other tactics that are part of Operation Safety – our ongoing campaign to prevent and detect knife crime – are also being utilised.

“If you have suspicions about a person or group of people, please phone Sussex Police on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency or if a crime is happening.”

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Police want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex PolicePolice want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex Police
Police want to speak to these people in connection with the incidents. Photo: Sussex Police
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