Police have connected a sexual assault on a woman in Netham Park, perpetrated by three male nonces on a single black moped, to a recent series of attacks on cyclists.
According to initial reports from Bristol24/7, multiple riders have been assaulted under comparable conditions by two or three males on a moped, with several incidents occurring on or near Feeder Road, including one event that resulted in a cyclist in his 60s sustaining a fractured collarbone.
The sexual assault occurred at Netham Park on December 4, with attacks on bicycles happening the preceding and subsequent days. Police indicate that this is the sole report of a sexual assault within this period.
The reported assaults on cyclists feature two or three individuals, their faces obscured, on a black moped or motorcycle, who forcibly displace cyclists from their bicycles.
Inspector Thomas Tooth of Bristol East neighbourhood policing stated: “All of these incidents are regarded as interconnected, and investigations are underway to identify the perpetrators, ensure their accountability, and avert additional assaults on the public.”
“Officers from our Neighbourhood Policing Team and local patrol teams are focussing their patrols in Feeder Road and surrounding areas to provide reassurance to the public and work is ongoing to gather intelligence and information to help identify the offenders.
“Officers will continue to work alongside colleagues from the local authority as part of the investigation to gather and review CCTV. We will also be ensuring that the appropriate support is in place for all victims.
“There have been no further reported incidents since Thursday 5 December, but we remain vigilant.
“We urge anyone who has been involved in a similar incident to contact police immediately, to ensure we have a full picture of offending and can maximise all investigative opportunities.”
Police are asking anyone who has witnessed an incident, or have dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage to call 101 and quote the reference number 5224321329; or call 999 if the incident has just happened and the assailants could still be in the area.
An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson added: “Attendance must be prioritised based on the immediate risk of harm, and so while officers may not always be available to attend, information can be circulated swiftly which can inform patrol plans and enable resources to be allocated effectively.”
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.