Met Police appeal for witnesses of "high value" computer robbery

Crime Desk

Police are appealing for witnesses after armed robbers posing as police stole a consignment of high-value computer equipment.

Shortly before midnight on Monday, 9 November, a Silver Ford Transit van carrying a shipment of electrical components was stopped at a bogus police census point set up on Stanwell Road near the junction with the A30 at Heathrow.

The driver and his companion were sprayed with CS gas and forced out of the vehicle.

It is believed that one of the victims was threatened with a Taser gun.

The van was then stolen by up to four white male suspects two of whom were dressed in high visibility jackets and caps similar to those worn by police traffic officers.

It was later found abandoned in the Stanwell Moor area of Staines. The back doors of the van had been forced open and the goods had been taken.

Two other vehicles, a dark BMW 5 series and a dark coloured Audi A4 saloon, are believed to have been involved in the robbery.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Ian Wilson from the Metropolitan Police's Operation Grafton, said: "This was a well-organised and targeted attack aimed at a specific vehicle that the robbers knew would be carrying a high-value consignment.

"These criminals were not afraid to use violence to carry out the robbery and the experience has left the driver and his passenger very shaken.

"I'd appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time - 11.18pm on Monday, 9 November - and who may have seen the false traffic census point being set up or the van being stopped by the bogus police officers to come forward.

"Anyone who has any information that may assist the investigation should contact Operation Grafton on 020 8246 9972 or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."