Armed police arrest two suspected robbers on train

Two 18-year-olds suspected of carrying out a robbery were arrested after armed officers tracked them as they boarded a train.

The men have been accused of using a weapon to threaten a teenage boy in Castle Park, Colchester, shortly after 18:00 GMT on Sunday 23 February, Essex Police said. He was not hurt, but handed over a piece of jewellery.

After police were alerted, two people "of interest" were seen near Colchester North railway station shortly before they got on a London-bound train.

They were arrested after the train stopped at Shenfield, where officers found jewellery and a large sum of cash.

Essex Police said officers had worked with British Transport Police to keep a close watch on the suspects and ensure the safety of other passengers.

Det Insp Tim Coyles said: "The two people who are now in custody would not have been aware of the operation going on around them until officers made the decision to move forward and arrest them in Shenfield."

He added: "Tackling the use of knives in Colchester and across Essex is significant priority for the force and, as this incident shows, we'll robustly deal with anyone who tries to get away with carrying a knife or making threats with it."

Police have appealed for witnesses.

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