POLICE are appealing for information following an attempted robbery outside Cwrt Bleddyn stores in Cwmbran on Monday, December 30.
Two men, both dressed in black and wearing balaclavas, approached the scene on a black moped at approximately 4:10pm. They attempted to steal an electric bike from outside the stores, located between Cocker Avenue and Glyntirion, but were challenged by the bike’s owner. The suspects fled empty-handed, heading in the direction of Cocker Avenue.
Linked incidents in Cwmbran
Detective Inspector Elaine Newbury said: “Enquiries are ongoing to identify these two men, and we’d like to hear from anyone who was near the stores between 4:00pm and 4:30pm that day.
“We believe these individuals may also be linked to another robbery reported in Dorallt Close later the same day, where an electric bike was stolen from a teenage boy.
“We’ve received several calls from the public with valuable information, and we’re grateful for their assistance in progressing the investigation.
“Officers have arrested a 22-year-old man from Newport in connection with these incidents. He has since been released on bail as investigations continue.”
Appeal clarification
A photo of a man shared on police social media channels earlier this week was mistakenly linked to this investigation. Detective Inspector Newbury clarified:
“This person is not a suspect and is in no way connected to the attempted robbery. We acknowledge this error and are reviewing our processes for public appeals.”
How to help
Anyone with information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, is urged to contact the police by calling 101, sending a direct message on social media, or visiting the force’s website. Please quote log reference 2400428652.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via their website.