Appeal: Two men suspected of stealing e-bikes from two teenagers near Thatcham arrested

Two teenage boys have been robbed of their e-bikes while they were waiting for a friend near Thatcham.

Police said a man got out of a grey Volkswagen Caddy van and forced the boys to hand over the bikes on Long Lane.

The offender then rode away towards Hermitage on one of the bikes, with the other in his offhand.

The incident happened at around 2.30pm on Saturday, May 17, when a Carerra Vengeance e-bike and a Specialized Rockhopper modified e-bike were taken.

No one was injured.

A 30-year-old man and a 27-year-old man, both from Reading, were arrested on suspicion of robbery.

Both have been bailed while investigations continue.

Investigating officer DC Nicholas Jones said: “I’m appealing to anybody who witnessed this incident or who may have dash-cam or mobile phone footage which has captured it to please get in touch.

“I would specifically like to appeal for residents who live on or near Long Lane to review CCTV on their properties around the time of the offence to see if they can see the offender on the bike following the robbery.”

Anyone with footage can upload it to the dedicated portal for this investigation.

Police are urging anyone with information to make a report by calling 101, quoting reference number 43250242455.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.