3:41pm Monday 29th December 2008
By Chris Gregory
A RIDER handed over his custom-built motorbike after a gang of three men threatened him with a knife.
The 18-year-old had parked his Shineray 125cc bike at the rear of flats in Brighton Hill parade at around 4pm on Sunday, December 28, when the gang approached him.
The men, who were all wearing hooded tops with the hoods up, demanded the victim hand over the bike.
When the owner refused, one of the men threatened him with a knife.
The trio then made off with the bike, and a white helmet with silver skulls, which the victim had just purchased.
The first man police want to speak to is described as black, 6ft, aged between 17 and 18, and wore a dark jacket.
The second man is described as white, 5ft 8ins, and wore a dark hooded top with the word MAX written in white on the back.
The third man is described as around 5ft 10ins, and wore a dark top with the hood up.
The bike, which had been rebuilt by its owner, is described as black and gold, with gold wheel rims, silver clutch cables and brake lever, with a red key and ignition.
Pc Tracy West, of Basingstoke police station, said: “This bike had been lovingly rebuilt by the owner who spent many valuable hours doing this as it is his pride and joy.
“It is likely the number plate has been removed but the bike would be instantly recognisable to anyone who is interested in mini motos and pit bikes.”
Anyone with information can contact Pc West at Basingstoke police station on 0845 045 4545, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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