Two 18-year-old men were arrested by armed officers after a teenage boy was robbed at knifepoint in Castle Park, Colchester, on Sunday evening, 23 February 2025.
The incident occurred shortly after 6pm when the teenage victim was confronted and threatened with a weapon by two individuals, who forced him to hand over an item of jewelry. Thankfully, the boy was not physically harmed during the ordeal.
Local officers, along with armed units, quickly responded to the report. Following rapid investigations, two suspects were identified near Colchester North train station. The suspects boarded a London-bound train, prompting Essex Police and British Transport Police to coordinate a discreet operation to monitor and ensure the safety of passengers.
The operation culminated in Shenfield, where armed officers safely apprehended the two suspects as the train made a scheduled stop. A search revealed the stolen jewelry and a large sum of cash believed to be linked to the robbery.
The two men were taken into custody and remain there for questioning as Colchester CID leads the ongoing investigation.
Detective Inspector Tim Coyles praised the swift response and coordination among the officers involved. “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,” DI Coyles said. “Thanks to the professionalism of all officers involved, there was never any wider threat to the public, and two key arrests were made safely.”
DI Coyles also called on the public to assist with the investigation. “I would encourage anyone who witnessed or experienced any concerning behavior either in the city center 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.”
The use of knives remains a pressing concern for Police. DI Coyles emphasized Essex Police’s commitment to tackling knife crime: “Tackling the use of knives in Colchester and across Essex is a 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.”
DCI Jennifer Bliss, head of Essex’s armed policing unit, commended her team’s efforts. “Our firearms officers are out patrolling every day, keeping the people of Essex safe. It isn’t often the public hears 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.”
Anyone with further information about the incident is urged to contact Essex Police through their website or the online Live Chat service, which operates 24/7. Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 for more details.
