Stop this car park crime

Sep 10 2009 Harrow Observer

ON SUNDAY, a friend's 13-year-old son and his friends were leaving the cinema to meet parents in the car park when they were stopped by two to five young men of West Indian appearance, who wanted their money and any other valuables.

As this was occurring, several of the parents arrived and the youths fled.

What was really worrying about this incident is that it's by no means a rare event. I've heard from many people who have had bad experiences near or around St George's Shopping Centre.

Let's make no mistake, these youths not only commit crime they instil fear in people.

One of the lads caught up in this event overheard one of the youths saying: "You were lucky this time, but we'll get you next time."

I'd like, through your newspaper, to ask two questions: 1. What, if any, comment do the police have? How many arrests and convictions for this kind of offence within this area can they produce? 2. How many other members of the public have been subjected to this kind of crime without having reported it?

This is an important issue and needs to be aired publicly, so that action can be decided upon.

ALAN PALMER Parkfield Crescent

South Ruislip

EDITOR'S NOTE:

IN RESPONSE, Harrow Police told us they are appealing for witnesses to the robbery, which took place at 5.45pm on Sunday (06/09) in Kymberley Road outside St George's Shopping Centre.

Four teenagers aged between 15 and 17 years old were robbed by a group of up to 10 black males aged 16 to 21.

The victims were approached by the larger group and asked the time before having their pockets searched.

Items stolen included mobile phones, an iPod portable music player, Oyster cards and £25 cash.

At least one of the muggers was in possession of a knife, believed to be a penknife, and the robbers ran off along Kymberley

* Anyone with information should call 0300 123 1212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.