A brave passer-by stepped in to chase off a gang of thugs who were trying to steal a man’s watch and phone in Rotherhithe.
The incident took place at night outside the Seven Islands Leisure Centre on Lower Road earlier this year on March 30. Now the police are appealing for assistance from the public to identify three men they wish to speak to in connection with the robbery.
The victim got off the 47 bus at about 12.20am after a night out in east London. Three men, who had got on the same bus at the same stop, followed him off the bus and quickly attacked him.
They stole his watch and tried to steal his phone. Luckily a member of the public stepped in and chased them off – and was even able to get the watch back.
The men are described as about 5ft 9, in their twenties or thirties, speaking with ‘overseas’ accents and of Middle Eastern appearance.
PC Johanna Hernandez Garcia, from the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “This was a nasty attack and the victim was lucky not to sustain serious injuries. We have carried out a number of inquiries to piece together the events of that night and are now appealing for the assistance of the public.
“No one should have to go about their day in fear of thieves and we know the impact such crimes have on victims. I would remind people to remain aware of their surroundings and where possible, keep valuables out of sight.”
Anyone who recognises any of the three men or has any information which could assist is urged to contact police on 07500 607652 or by dialling 101 quoting crime reference 3015739/22. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
+ If you see a robbery taking place or have just been robbed call 999 immediately. The first few hours in any investigation are key for us to gather evidence and gives us the best chance of identifying those responsible.