‘I want to assure the community we are listening to concerns and a thorough investigation is being conducted’-Police respond to series of Rainham robberies.

Detectives in Havering are investigating a linked series of robberies that have targeted pupils from a school in Rainham.

Superintendent Simon Hutchinson of Havering police said: “We fully understand the concern from parents in the Rainham area following this series of mobile phone robberies, particularly as the suspects have threatened violence. I want to assure the community that we are listening to those concerns, a thorough investigation is being conducted, and that all six offences reported so far are being treated as a linked series.

“As our investigation continues, we are working closely with the school through our dedicated schools officer, we are deploying uniformed officers to the area at the start and end of the school day supported by our Safer Transport colleagues and we encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious to approach those officers. “

The series of six robberies took place from 12 January – 5 February and in all six cases the victims were boys aged 13-17 years.

Locations of the offences were Rainham Road, Wennington Road, Wantz Lane, and Lambs Lane South. One offence was aboard a bus.

In all cases the victims were threatened with violence. None of the victims were physically injured, but the effects of robbery on the victim can be long lasting.

In all cases the suspects asked for the victim’s mobile phone and the PIN number.

Supt Hutchinson added: ““We know that the effects of being a victim of crime can run far deeper than a loss of property. If you think you have been a victim please do report the incident to police – at the very least so that we can make sure you are supported.“

“It is extremely rare for a series of robberies to take place in such a short space of time and in such a small area and we are looking for help from the local community to identify those responsible.  

“If you have any information, no matter how small you might think it is, please get in touch.”

If you can help, please call 101 or post on ‘X’ @MetCC quoting 4483/12JAN24.

You can also provide information 100 percent anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

Any young people who have either information about violence or knife crime, can visit www.fearless.org to where they can pass on information anonymously – your I.P address will not be traced. Fearless is part of the Crimestoppers charity, and is also independent of the police.

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