Third teen arrested over spate of robberies on popular South Staffordshire walking and cycling route

Two teenagers from Wolverhampton were initially arrested yesterday (May 14) in connection with the robberies on the former Wombourne Branch Railway, which has become a popular cycling and walking route.

A third boy, also from Wolverhampton, was arrested later yesterday.

Staffordshire Police said the incidents, which took place between May 3 and May 13, saw mobile phones and bikes taken.

The force said that some of the stolen property had been recovered following searches, and that the three teenagers had been questioned in custody and bailed with conditions.

A spokesman also said that the investigation was ongoing and asked for anyone with any information to get in touch as soon as possible.

The Staffordshire Police spokesperson said: "We have arrested a third person as part of our ongoing investigation into a series of robberies in south Staffordshire.

"Separate incidents have taken place in Wombourne between Saturday, May 3 and Tuesday, May 13.

"Offenders have been using the former railway line which passes through Wombourne to approach victims.

"The area, previously known as the Wombourne branch railway, which is now a well-known cycling and walking route, has been targeted by offenders looking to steal people’s phones and bikes.

"Two mobile phones and three bikes were taken during the robberies. Some of the stolen property has been recovered following recent searches.

"Two teenage boys, from Wolverhampton, were arrested on suspicion of robbery yesterday (Wednesday).

"A 16-year-old boy, from Wolverhampton, was also arrested late yesterday on suspicion of robbery.

"All three have been questioned in custody and bailed with conditions while our investigation continues.

"We’re keen to speak to anyone with any information that can help with our investigation. Call 101 or use Live Chat on our website, quoting incident 597 of May 13.

"To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."