Merseyside Police are urgently seeking information after a violent robbery occurred in New Ferry during the early hours of Friday, September 22.
The incident was reported to the police at approximately 01:30. According to the victim, a man in his 30s, he was walking along New Chester Road when he was assaulted by a group of five men in their 20s. Four of the assailants were on foot, while one was riding a red mountain bike. During the attack, the victim sustained a slash to the side of his face.
Following this initial assault, the victim sought refuge in a nearby block of flats. However, he was pursued by his attackers, who subjected him to another assault and forcibly took his top. The ordeal continued as he was chased along New Chester Road, where the assailants also stole his mobile phone.
After the incident, the offenders fled the scene in the direction of New Ferry.
The victim was promptly taken to a hospital for medical treatment.
Local law enforcement responded to the scene and initiated a search. Thanks to the assistance of Police Dog Yoko, a knife believed to be connected to the crime was discovered in the area. This crucial piece of evidence will undergo forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Detectives are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity and are appealing to any witnesses of the assault to come forward and provide information that may aid in identifying the perpetrators.
Community Inspector Daniel Greenhalgh emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Enquiries are ongoing, and we would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on their mobile phone, dash-cam, doorbell, or CCTV, to please contact us to help identify the offenders.”
He commended Police Dog Yoko for her role in recovering the weapon and stressed the commitment of the police force in combatting knife crime. Inspector Greenhalgh said, “Reducing knife crime in Merseyside is a priority all year round. Our officers are committed to removing anyone who stores, carries, and uses weapons through proactive use of stop and search powers, open land searches, warrants, and education work alongside partners.”
Inspector Greenhalgh also issued a plea to the community to engage in conversations about the dangers of knife crime, especially with young and vulnerable individuals who may be at risk of getting involved.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the police at 101, DM @MerPolCC, or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 23000914919. Individuals can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
