Derbyshire police issue important advice after boy, 12, told to hand over his bike

A 12-year-old boy was riding near to the Premier Store in Ironville at around 8pm on April 22 when he was allegedly approached by two people who demanded him to hand over his bike.

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The boy refused and cycled home quickly.

The offenders are described as being male and aged around 16 or 17.

They were wearing hooded tops with the hoods up and coverings over their faces.

PC Lauren Shurki, of Derbyshire Constabulary, said: “We don’t want to cause alarm as this type of incident doesn’t happen often, but it is important that people are aware and remain vigilant.

“We would also encourage people to report any suspicious activity or information about crime to us.”

Parents and teenagers should be aware of the following advice to help them stay safe:

- Be aware of your surroundings and who is around. Don’t be distracted by items such as mobile phones, which could also be attractive to thieves

- Under current coronavirus Government advice it is safer, if possible, to be with other members of your household. In normal circumstances it would be acceptable to stay with friends when out and about

- Stay around busier, well-lit areas, avoiding any short cuts or secluded areas

- Security mark your bike and register it at bikeregister.com, a national, police approved database which can help police trace and find your bike if it is stolen and recovered.

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