Robbery on the rails: Joint effort leads to swift arrests in Essex
A coordinated response between British Transport Police (BTP) and the National Police Air Service (NPAS) led to the swift arrest of two men following a robbery on board a Southend-bound train.
On 31 March 2021, a 21-year-old man was travelling from Upminster to Southend Central when he was approached by two men who had boarded the train at Basildon. One of the suspects threatened the victim and stole a luxury watch and a cross-body bag before both men left the train at Chalkwell.
The victim continued to Southend Central and immediately reported the incident. BTP officers launched a rapid response, supported by NPAS who provided aerial surveillance to assist in locating the suspects.
Thanks to the joint efforts, one suspect was found in Leigh-on-Sea in possession of the stolen watch, while the second was located nearby shortly after.
Both men were sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 22 May 2025. One received 18 months’ imprisonment after being found guilty of robbery, while the other was handed a suspended sentence after pleading guilty.
This case highlights the strength of collaborative policing and the value of air support in fast-moving investigations.
NPAS is proud to support BTP and other forces across the UK in keeping communities safe.
