Robbers on motorbikes stole Alexandar Richardson's bike
Alexandar Richardson was cut and bruised during the assault. Picture: Instagram/Alexandar Richardson
Cyclists in Richmond Park are being urged to be vigilant after a group of machete-wielding masked robbers on motorbikes attacked a professional cyclist in the park – robbing him of his bike.
Professional cyclist Alexandar Richardson said he was cycling through the park at the end of a training session this Thursday (7 October).
He said a group of men on motorbikes wearing balaclavas started following him and he suspected they wanted to steal his bicycle.
Police confirmed they were called at 4.01pm on 7 October to reports of a robbery in Richmond Park, and it had been reported that a group of men had assaulted a man and stole his bike.
Mr Richardson, a British cyclist and former stockbroker, claims that one of the men drove a motorbike into him at around 40 miles an hour, causing him to lose control of the bicycle.
Moments later, he says, one of the men pulled out a machete which appeared to be around 15 inches long. It was at this point he decided to hand over the bike to his attackers.
Posting a picture of his injuries to his 10.5k Instagram followers, he said: “Pretty shocking experience today in Richmond Park.
“Was finishing my training around 3pm when two motorbikes with four men and balaclavas started following me. I knew exactly they wanted to take my bike and started to think what the best thing I could do was.
“I turned around at East Sheen roundabout and started riding full speed to the café about 500 metres away. They simply rode one of the motor bikes into me at 60kph.
“I came off the bike and the first motorbike lost control. I held onto my bike however the second motor bike then dragged me and the bike along the floor for another 100 metres.
“After this they pulled out a 15 inch machete at which point I thought better and let the bike go. I’m pretty cut up and bruised with a swollen hip but tomorrow is another day.”
He added, “Please be careful in the area and note this is becoming a common occurrence in parts of London. The police have taken their notes down as armed robbery and hopefully the criminals are found.
“Please raise awareness. At least I got most of the ride in even if no file to show for it! Once again the wife to the rescue to pick me up.”
Simon Richards, Richmond Park manager, said, “We can confirm two incidents have taken place in Richmond Park which are being investigated and handled by the police.
“Our thoughts are with those involved and we wish them a speedy recovery.
“Please take care and be vigilant when in the park.”
A spokesperson for the Met Police said, “Police were called at 4.01pm on Thursday, 7 October to reports of a robbery in Richmond Park.
“Officers attended and it was reported that a man had been assaulted by a group of men who stole his bike. He did not require hospital treatment.
“They carried out a search of the area but found no trace of the suspects. Officers took an initial statement from the informant. Enquiries continues. No arrests have been made.
“Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 5103/07Oct. To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
James Mayer - Local Democracy Reporter
October 8, 2021
