News / Crime
Sexual assault in park by masked men on mopeds linked to attacks on cyclists
A sexual assault on a woman in a park by three men riding one moped has been linked by police to a recent spate of attacks on cyclists.
As first reported in Bristol24/7, a number of cyclists have been attacked in similar circumstances by two or a trio of men on a moped, with several attacks happening on or near Feeder Road including one incident which left a cyclist in his 60s with a broken collarbone.
The sexual assault happened in Netham Park on December 4, with the attacks on cyclists taking place the day before and day after this assault which police say is the only report of a sexual assault they have received during this timeframe.
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The attacks on cyclists that have been reported to the police all involve two or three riders with their faces covered on a black moped or motorbike, with cyclists being pushed off their bikes.
Bristol east neighbourhood policing inspector Thomas Tooth said: “All of these incidents are being treated as linked and enquiries are being carried out to identify those responsible to bring them to justice, and prevent further attacks on members 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.”
Main photo: Ellie Pipe
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