Police are hunting for a gang who attacked an off-duty policeman with bolt-cutters after he challenged them for stealing bikes.
The 57-year-old witnessed the group of four leaving Vauxhall train station without using an oyster card at around 10.50am on July 17 and decided to follow them to a bike rack nearby.
He saw one of the suspects take out a pair of croppers and attempt to steal bicycles chained to the rack.
But when the victim called 999 and identified himself as a police officer he was whacked in the head with the bolt-croppers, causing him to fall to the ground. The four suspects fled the scene towards South Lambeth Road.
The policeman was taken to hospital with a head injury and was discharged later that day.
A 15-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the investigation on July 23 and has since been bailed to return to a south London police station in late September, pending further enquiries.
Investigating officers have released CCTV images of three people they would like to speak to in connection with the assault.
Detective Constable Sarah Francis, of Lambeth CID, said: “If you recognise any of these people, or indeed witnessed this incident then please get in touch.
“This attack happened in broad daylight and resulted in the victim receiving hospital treatment. I urge members of the community to come forward if they have any information with regards to the incident to help us catch those responsible.”
Anyone with information about this incident can call 020 8649 2191, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
