British Transport Police have released CCTV images of five boys they wish to speak to following a violent incident on a train in the West Midlands. The attack occurred on the evening of April 1, between Coventry Railway Station and Coventry Arena.
Details of the incident
At approximately 8pm, a group of youths approached a male passenger and demanded to see his ticket. When he refused, the group allegedly subjected him to racist abuse. One of the youths then attempted to snatch the victim's mobile phone from his hand. As the man tried to defend himself, he was punched in the face and sprayed with water.
The victim sustained injuries to his mouth, along with bruising and swelling. The youths subsequently disembarked the train at Coventry Arena.
Police appeal
Detectives are keen to identify the individuals captured in the CCTV images, believing they may hold crucial information to assist the investigation. A spokesperson for British Transport Police stated: “Do you recognise these boys? Detectives investigating an attempted robbery and assault on board a train between Coventry Railway Station and Coventry Arena have released these images.
“Shortly before 8pm on April 1, a group of youths approached the victim and demanded he show them his ticket. When he refused, the group made racist remarks, and one of them grabbed his phone and tried to take it from him. When the victim attempted to stop him, he was punched in the face and sprayed with water. Detectives would like to speak to the boys in the images as they believe they may have information which could help their investigation.
“Anyone who recognises them is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 734 of April 1. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
How to help
Members of the public who recognise any of the individuals in the images are urged to contact British Transport Police via text at 61016, by phone at 0800 40 50 40, or to provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, quoting reference 734 of April 1.
