Couple mugged in broad daylight
The couple – a 22-year-old man and his girlfriend – were confronted by three men on a path near the pavilion on the Fortyfoot Road Recreation Ground, which is popular with families and dog walkers.
At around 1pm last Thursday, the youths stopped the couple and demanded the man give them his money and mobile phone. He initially refused but the offenders patted him down and checked his pockets, after which he handed over his mobile phone. The couple were then allowed to go on their way.
Mole Valley neighbourhood inspector John Tadman said the time and nature of the crime was "very worrying". He said: "We will be stepping up uniformed and plain-clothed patrols in the area and advise people who use the recreation ground to be vigilant and let us know if they see anything suspicious."
A resident of Highwoods, a road that runs parallel to the park, said the incident was very unusual, but added: "You have to walk around the path behind the bowling club pavilion which is a muggers' paradise. It is very isolated and it is a narrow path."
He added: "The incident is unsettling for the lady folk around here who like to think they are safe while wandering their streets."
Barry Jennings, 58, walks his dog at the recreation ground every day.
"I do know old ladies who have got dogs and they are a bit dubious about walking around that bit of the park," he said.
"But it doesn't bother me, I shall still go around there."
The suspects are described as three white males. The offender who patted the victim down is described as 6ft tall, around 20 years old, with a skinny build and of a 'malnourished' appearance. He was wearing a black hoodie with grey slashes.
The second suspect, who blocked the path, is described as having short, dark hair, of a medium build, in his late teens and riding a BMX bike.
Inspector Tadman added: "We would like to hear from anyone who has seen anyone matching these descriptions in the area or who has any information regarding this offence."
