Man attacked with fire extinguisher during attempted bike theft

Gang of seven blasted victim with fire extinguisher and knocked him to the floor during incident in East London

Ilford bike gang

A GANG OF bike thieves attacked 58-year-old man with a fire extinguisher before knocking him to the floor during an attempted theft in Ilford yesterday.

The victim was surrounded by seven thieves on four scooters, who immediately knocked him off his bike and blasted him in the face with a fire extinguisher. After failing to steal his bike, they fled the scene.

Police in Dagenham are investigating seven ‘moped-enabled’ thefts in the area this week alone and believe the suspects in the above video are responsible.

Police are appealing for witnesses and members of the public to come forward if they know anything. The investigation team in Ilford can be contacted on 07766 247747, by calling 101, Crimestoppers or by tweeting @MetCC.

Detective Sergeant Dean Grafton, from the East Area Command Unit based in Ilford, said: ‘We are appealing for any information as to the identity and whereabouts of this gang that are clearly targeting motorcyclists in the east London area.

‘They are often seen in pairs on mopeds or scooters and with a fire extinguisher to distract their victim with a view to stealing the motorbikes.’

Three teenagers aged 15,15 and 16 have been arrested and released pending further investigation.