More Lee towpath attacks

AS REPORTED in Narrowboatworld yesterday five men were robbed at knifepoint on the Lee towpath and beaten up by a gang of thugs, with more similar attacks now reported.

It is believed the same gang of masked robbers carried out all the attacks covering the towpaths of Hackney, Tottenham and Waltham Forest, showing the brazen nature of these robbers.

Unnecessary threats and violence

The police report that in some offences, the suspects have used unnecessary threats and violence, attacking victims after they had handed over property, with a spokesman adding:

“There have been increased patrols in the affected boroughs and activity has taken place to reassure the community, including warning local residents, many who have boats moored on the river. Officers in the affected boroughs have been briefed and will immediately respond to information received.

“I cannot discount that there may be other victims who have yet to contact police—I would urge them to come forward and provide us with any information they have; this may prove vital to our investigation.”

Description

The robbers are described as black, aged 16 to 19 and between 5ft 11in and 6ft 2in and all were wearing balaclavas. One had a fur hood and another escaped on an orange mountain bike.

Anyone with information, that particularly includes those on moored boats can contact Hackney CID via 101 or via Twitter @MetCC quoting operation name Glanford. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.