Colchester: Two arrests by armed officers after robbery

Two 18-year-old men were arrested after a robbery in Colchester when armed officers were able to track them on a train leaving the city.

We were alerted to a teenage boy being threatened with a weapon by two people in Castle Park, shortly after 6pm on Sunday 23 February.

Thankfully, the boy was not hurt but he was forced to hand over an item of jewellery.

As a result of the report, local officers and armed officers were alerted to the incident and quick enquiries were carried out.

Two people of interest were then seen near to Colchester North train station. They then boarded a London-bound train.

A number of policing tactics were then put in place in conjunction with our colleagues in British Transport Police to ensure the safety of the train, whilst also maintaining a close watch on the pair.

As the train stopped in Shenfield, two arrests were made. When the pair were searched, officers also found items of jewellery and a large sum of cash – all of which we believe to be significant to our investigation.

The men remain in custody for questioning this morning and the investigation is being led by Colchester CID.

Detective Inspector Tim Coyles said:

“The two people who are now in custody would not have been aware of the operation going on around them until officers made the decision to move forward and arrest them in Shenfield.
“Throughout this response, because of the professionalism of all officers involved, there was never any wider threat to the public. And as a result of it, two key arrests were made safely.
“I would also encourage anyone who witnessed or experienced any concerning behaviour either in the city centre or at Colchester North train station on Sunday afternoon and evening to please come forward and speak to us if you have not already done so.
"Tackling the use of knives in Colchester and across Essex is significant priority for the force and, as this incident shows, we’ll robustly deal with anyone who tries to get away with carrying a knife or making threats with it.”

Detective Chief Inspector Jennifer Bliss, who heads up our armed policing, added:

“Our firearms officers are out patrolling every day keeping the people of Essex safe.
“It isn't often the public hear about their work as they professionally carry out their tactics, without need for hype or ceremony. I am proud of these teams every day and grateful for the service they provide to Essex.”

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