Appeal for information following knifepoint robbery of bike from teenager in Aintree

Detectives are appealing for information following the knifepoint robbery of a bicycle from a teenager in Aintree this afternoon, Sunday 30 June.

At 4.15pm, officers were called to Wango Lane, close to the canal path, to a report that a 16-year-old boy had been out riding his bike.

He was threatened by four youths, forced to hand over his bike and slashed to the hand, resulting in minor injuries but leaving him extremely distressed.

The group walked off with the bike towards Melling Lane in the direction of Maghull. CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing.

The suspects are described as around 17 years old, with the male carrying the knife described as white, 5ft 10in tall, of large build, wearing a black padded jacket with a hood, and dark bottoms.

The bike (pictured) is described as a black and blue Trek EX5 mountain bike with stickers from the ‘Rick and Morty’ cartoon series on the frame.

Detective Inspector Tara Denn said: “We’re keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this appalling incident or saw a group of young males walking in this area a short time later in possession of this distinctive bike.

“The victim and his family have been left understandably shaken by this ordeal, and I want to reassure them and indeed everyone who visits this area with family and friends that we will take action on all information you provide.

“The 16-year-old victim has autism which could mean he will suffer from the memory of this ordeal even more than others would.

“It is despicable to think that these offenders targeted a vulnerable young man in this way, and I know the wider community will share our disgust.

“If you have been offered this bike for sale or seen it being ridden anywhere today, do the right thing and come forward immediately, so we can identify this cowardly group of offenders and remove them from our streets.”

Anyone with information can contact us @MerPolCC, call 101 with reference 19100346349 or @CrimestoppersUK anonymously on 0800 555 111.