Manhunt launched after south west London bike thefts

The group of five, allegedly part of an organised crime gang, were arrested after extensive investigations reportedly connected them to burglaries.

Residents reported an increase in stolen bikes across the south west London area.

Victims then saw that their bikes had been advertised for sale online following the thefts.

Some of these bicycles were worth up to £10,000.

The offences were reported to have taken place between March and December 2023.

Police are now appealing for information on Eric Andrews, 22, of no fixed abode, in connection with the burglaries.

He was last seen in the Kingston area and is described as a white male, sporting long tied-back brown hair and short dark facial hair.

On March 21, the burglary squad executed six warrants, resulting in the arrest and charge of three suspects.

Further investigations and led to two more individuals being charged, all of whom have made their court appearances.

In a separate incident, a 22-year-old man handed himself into Wandsworth Police Station and was subsequently bailed pending further inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Dan O’Sullivan, who is leading the investigation, said: “Listening to local residents, tackling violent crime and reducing burglary, are all priorities in our ‘A New Met for London’ plan.

“I would like to thank the victims for reporting these crimes to our local police team who then worked to deliver a precise and targeted operation to track down these suspects.

“We now encourage the public to help us locate the outstanding suspect.

“If you recognise Eric Andrews or have seen him, then please come forward. Any information, no matter how small can help our investigation.”

Anyone with information which could assist this investigation can help by calling 101 and referencing case number 01/WW/10868/24, or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.