Boy arrested after ride-by theft in Brighton

A 17-year-old boy has been arrested after a ride-by theft in Brighton.

He is suspected of being part of a group of moped riders and passengers trying to steal from passers-by in the centre of Brighton.

Sussex Police appealed for witnesses to what it described as an “anti-social group of moped riders” in Brighton on Saturday (9 September).

The force said: “Police received numerous reports from the public about a group of moped riders driving dangerously and trying to steal from passers-by in the city centre.

“A 17-year-old Brighton boy was arrested on suspicion of theft and being carried on a motor vehicle taken without the owner’s consent after a woman had her iPhone 6 stolen in Coombe Road at about 2.50pm (on Saturday).

“He was released under investigation.”

Detective Constable Steve Smith said: “We are investigating numerous offences and would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed this group of moped riders and may have footage of them.

“There were two mopeds involved in these incidents, both ridden by teenage boys who at times were not wearing crash helmets.

“The manner in which the mopeds were driven and the behaviour of those being carried on them is of concern.

“If you can assist, contact police online quoting serial 787 of 09/09.”