Woman arrested on suspicion of robbery in Gloucester yesterday, 16 May

A woman has been arrested on suspicion of robbery in Gloucester yesterday afternoon, Friday 16 May.

It follows reports that a woman was threatening members of the public in St Mary’s Square at around 3.40pm.

The woman was seen carrying a bread knife and approaching two women, asking them to hand over their mobile phones. When they refused and began to walk away, the suspect began to chase them, causing them to run off.

She was then reported to be making a threat to a third woman in the area.

Armed officers were deployed and, following a search of the area, a 28-year-old woman from Gloucester was arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of a bladed article. The knife was also seized by officers.

The woman remains in police custody at this time and enquiries are continuing.

Inspector Ash Gardner, from Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: ““We received a number of reports yesterday afternoon of a woman approaching members of the public and making threats. Officers were quickly on the scene and were able to make an arrest.

“We would like to reassure the public that we will not tolerate this type of behaviour. We will act swiftly to apprehend anyone who creates fear among the people who live and work in our communities.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident and who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact the Constabulary through the website, quoting incident 314 of 16 May: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/a-crime-that-has-already-been-reported/