Officers have charged three people in connection with an incident in Bushey and are issuing a fresh appeal for witnesses.

At around 2.40pm on Thursday (16 January), officers received reports that a man was being threatened with a knife inside Tesco Express on Harcourt Road. No injuries were reported. 

Officers were subsequently informed that a 17-year-old male was reportedly assaulted on the corner of Moatfield Road and Harcourt Road before being put into a black Range Rover, which was then driven from the scene.

Officers attended and, with the help of colleagues from the National Police Air Service, tracked the vehicle travelling on Geddes Road in Bushey. 

The vehicle was brought to a stop before the suspects fled the area, leaving the victim inside without serious injuries. Following fast-time enquiries, officers arrested three people in connection with the incident.

Several bladed weapons were recovered from the Range Rover and have been seized. 

Kevin Ofori, aged 21, of Eldon Avenue, Borehamwood, Abdoulie Jallow, aged 19, of Grosvenor Road, St Albans and a 16-year-old boy from Portsmouth were charged with kidnap, possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence and possession of an offensive weapon. All three were remanded into custody. 

Detective Sergeant George Lewin, who is investigating, said: “I appreciate news of this incident will be concerning to members of the local community. 

“We have worked hard to secure these charges and are not seeking anyone further in connection with the incidents. However, I would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the Harcourt Road area between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on the day and witnessed something that could help us with our investigation. If you saw a black Range Rover or were driving through the area and have a dashcam fitted, please review your footage as you may have captured something that could assist us progress with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information can contact DS Lewin by email to george.lewin@herts.police.uk. 

You can also report information online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting ISR 359 of 16 January.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.