A teenager was punched in the neck as thieves tried to steal his moped near Watford town centre.

Hertfordshire Constabulary says it is investigating an attempted robbery which occurred at the junction of Sotheron Road and St Johns Road between 2.30pm and 3pm on Saturday, April 3.

The victim, 19, was riding his moped when he was approached by two people who are said to have attempted to steal it, the force says.

He was punched in the neck but managed to remain on the moped and accelerated away towards Clarendon Road.

The victim then flagged down a passing police car and officers immediately conducted a search of the area.

Police are now appealing for information and witnesses.

PC Debbie West, who is investigating, said: “We have already carried out a number of investigations, including a review of CCTV and house-to-house enquiries, in relation to this offence. Thankfully the victim was not badly injured but he has been left shaken by what happened.

“He believes there were several people around when the attempted robbery took place, so we are appealing to those people to come forward as soon as possible. You may have information that could help us progress our investigation, so please get in touch.”

Information can be reported online at information online at herts.police.uk/report or by calling 101.

  • A 16 year old boy from Harrow and a 14 year old boy from Thornton Heath have been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery in connection with this offence. They have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

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