Police in Cardiff are appealing for information on two men who carried out three robberies last night.
The incidents took place in the Cathays area of the city between 11.25pm and 11.50pm.
The victims were either texting, talking on a mobile phone, or listening to a MP3 players when they were approached, assaulted and asked to hand over their belongings.
Detective Inspector Tudor Thomas, head of CID in Roath and Cathays, said: “The two wanted men are white and in their early 20s but only one had a pushbike, which distinctively at times they were both riding at the same time.
“I am hoping this description might jog the memories of some potential witnesses such as shop owners, pub workers or takeaway premises where they might have visited during the course of Wednesday evening.
“I would ask anyone who thinks they may have seen these men in the area or has any other information to contact police immediately.”
The incidents are as follows:
- 11.25pm Woodville Road. Attempt robbery on 20-year-old man talking on his iPhone
- 11.30pm Inverness Place. Robbery of a 27-year-old man listening to MP3 player. This was stolen along with a mobile phone and wallet
- 11.50pm Montgomery Street. Robbery of a 20-year-old man texting on his iPhone which was stolen with a laptop computer.
DI Thomas added: “While the city remains a safe place we would ask people to be aware of their personal safety when they are walking alone at night and to be mindful of their surroundings.
“We would ask people to follow normal crime prevention advice such as not having valuables on show, to stick to well-lit areas, and if possible to walk with company in the hours of darkness.”
Despite recent incidents, robberies in Cardiff have significantly reduced by 32.3 per cent, or 149 fewer offences, compared to the same period last year (July to June 2008/2009 compared to 2009/2010)
Anyone with information on these incidents is asked to contact Roath CID on 029 2052 7262 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
