Two men from London have been taken into custody by police investigating a shocking multimillion-pound kidnap and robbery that unfolded in Oxford earlier this month.
Violent Ambush on Oxford Road
The incident occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, November 4, when five victims—two men and three women—were travelling by vehicle from Oxford towards London. Their journey was violently interrupted by masked assailants who forced their way into the car.
The attackers remained with the victims for approximately 30 minutes, during which they stole a luxury watch valued at around $590,000 (approximately £121,039) and their mobile phones. In a brazen modern-day demand, the criminals also coerced the victims into transferring $1.5 million (approximately £1,141,517) in cryptocurrency.
The ordeal finally concluded on Five Mile Drive in Oxford, where the perpetrators fled the scene. The traumatised victims were then able to alert authorities by calling 999.
Major Police Investigation Underway
Thames Valley Police has launched a complex, multi-faceted investigation into the serious offences. Detective Sergeant Stuart McMaster is leading the appeal for public information, stating: “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.”
Investigators are particularly keen to trace the movements of three cars: a black BMW saloon, a blue Hyundai Ioniq, and a silver Mercedes Benz Vito. They are asking anyone who saw these vehicles in the areas of Yarnton Road and Sandy Lane between Kidlington and Yarnton, or in Five Mile Drive, Carey Close, Rotherfield Road and Kirk Close in Oxford between 1pm and 4pm on Tuesday, November 4, to come forward.
The probe has so far included extensive enquiries such as house-to-house visits, CCTV and ANPR reviews, and digital, forensic, and cryptocurrency analysis. Police have executed warrants in London and Birmingham, resulting in four arrests.
Suspects Released on Bail as Enquiries Continue
Four men have been arrested in connection with the case. A 21-year-old from London was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery, kidnap, and other driving offences. He has been bailed until January 14 next year.
A 37-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of robbery and kidnap. He has been released on police bail until January 30, 2026.
Additionally, a 23-year-old man from Kent was arrested on suspicion of robbery and kidnap and bailed until February 7. A 19-year-old man from Birmingham was arrested on suspicion of robbery, kidnap, and possession of articles for use in fraud. He has been bailed until January 29.
Detective Sergeant McMaster added: “If anyone has any information or footage then please contact Thames Valley Police by visiting a police station, leaving details on our dedicated webpage for this investigation or calling 101, quoting investigation reference number 43250563760. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously via its website or by calling 0800 555 111.”
Police have confirmed they are supporting the victims and keeping them updated as the investigation progresses.
