Police tackling robbery spate in Hatfield

Police tackling robbery spate in Hatfield

Police are increasing patrols and urging the public to be vigilant following a spate of robberies in Hatfield.

Robberies have taken place in and around the alleyways surrounding Asda, including The Common, Queensway and St Peter’s Close. 

Officers are working to establish if the robberies are linked. The suspects have been described as young men, mostly with hoods or balaclavas on. Offenders have been reported in some incidents to be in possession of a knife.

Welwyn Hatfield Chief Inspector Chris Rutter said: “My officers are working hard to find those responsible for these incidents.

“Whilst thankfully nobody has been hurt, these have been frightening incidents for the victims.

“The robberies have been occurring at varying times across weekdays and weekends. 

“I would like to urge the public to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Most victims have been targeted due to carrying expensive shopping bags or carrying their phones or cash in plain sight. Please ensure your valuables are hidden and avoid walking with your phone in your hand.

“We understand these incidents will cause concern in the local community, which is why we have increased patrols in the area while our enquiries continue. If you witnessed any of these robberies, saw anything suspicious, or have CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage that may assist our investigation, please get in touch.”

You can 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.

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.

In an emergency, always call 999.