A cyclist in Regent’s Park fell victim to a violent robbery when a gang of thieves armed with a hammer stole his £4,200 road bike during an early morning ride.
Reports indicate that groups of bike-jackers have been targeting riders in the northwest London park, taking advantage of the early hours before vehicle traffic resumes at 7am.
The latest attack occurred on January 18, when 33-year-old Patrick Conneely was followed by two men on a moped while cycling along the Outer Circle.
The suspects, who appeared to have identified his high-value Trek Domane road bike, turned into a side road before doubling back to confront him.
One of the robbers then jumped off the moped, brandishing a hammer and demanding the bike. The incident, which took place just before 8am, has left the victim and other cyclists fearful of returning to the park.
Many have now opted to ride in large groups or meet outside the area to avoid becoming targets.
Concerns over safety in Regent’s Park have prompted calls for an increased police presence, particularly in the early hours when most cyclists are on the road.
Cyclists have urged law enforcement to take stronger action, suggesting operations similar to the recent police crackdown on watch robberies in the West End.
The Royal Parks police unit has identified bicycle thefts as a key priority and has deployed additional plainclothes and uniformed officers to patrol the area, particularly at night and before the park officially opens in the early morning.
The Metropolitan Police are also encouraging cyclists to register their bikes with them, making it easier to track stolen property and disrupt the resale of high-end bicycles in the second-hand market.
Authorities believe that making it harder to sell stolen bikes will play a crucial role in reducing these crimes.