In a brazen daylight robbery that highlights the growing risks of digital asset theft, a masked gang forced five people to hand over more than £1.1 million in cryptocurrency after forcing their way into their vehicle.
The Daring Daylight Attack
The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 4, when two men and three women were travelling from Oxford to London. According to police reports, a number of men wearing face coverings entered the vehicle and proceeded to rob the occupants during a terrifying ordeal that lasted approximately 30 minutes.
The criminals not only forced their victims to transfer the substantial cryptocurrency amount but also stole a £450,000 watch and multiple phones before abandoning the car in the Five Mile Drive area of Oxford. The traumatised victims subsequently contacted police to report the sophisticated crime.
Nationwide Police Investigation
Thames Valley Police have launched what they describe as a 'complex investigation' into the high-value robbery, resulting in four arrests across the country. The police force has been conducting extensive enquiries including house-to-house visits, CCTV review, ANPR analysis, and digital, forensic, cryptocurrency and financial investigations.
Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Stuart McMaster stated: 'I am appealing to members of the public who may have seen anything suspicious or have footage of three vehicles in some specific locations in Oxford and Kidlington.'
Police are particularly interested in sightings of a black BMW saloon car, a blue Hyundai Ioniq or a silver Mercedes Benz Vito in the Yarnton Road and Sandy Lane area between Kidlington and Yarnton, or in Five Mile Drive, Carey Close, Rotherfield Road and Kirk Close in Oxford between 1pm and 4pm on Tuesday 4 November.
Arrests and Ongoing Enquiries
The investigation has seen police execute warrants in London and Birmingham, with arrests made in Kent. Those arrested include:
- A 21-year-old man from London arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery, kidnap and other driving offences, bailed until January 14
- A 37-year-old man arrested on suspicion of robbery and kidnap, bailed until January 30
- A 23-year-old man from Kent arrested on suspicion of robbery and kidnap, bailed until February 7
- A 19-year-old man from Birmingham arrested on suspicion of robbery, kidnap and possession of articles for use in fraud, bailed until January 29
Detective Sergeant McMaster added: 'Thames Valley Police has been conducting a thorough investigation into the offences. We have also conducted warrants in London and Birmingham along with arrests in Kent. We are supporting the victims and keeping them updated during our complex investigation.'
Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage to contact Thames Valley Police by visiting a police station, providing details through their dedicated webpage for this investigation, or calling 101.
