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Fears for safety after mum mugged at knifepoint in Ufton Lane, Sittingboune

Steps are to be taken to help prevent a repeat of a mugging in a residential street which saw a woman robbed at knifepoint.

The victim, who is in her 30s and was with one of her children, was getting out of her car in Ufton Lane, Sittingbourne, when it happened.

She was approached by a man, whose face was obscured with a scarf, at about 9pm on Friday, October 7.

Watch: Residents living in fear after knifepoint mugging

He demanded money from her and then ran off with the cash.

It is thought he had been hiding in bushes in a pathway that connects Ufton Lane with Manor Grove, near the junction with Epps Road. He made his escape along the path, towards Manor Grove.

The mugging has left the victim and other people living in the road worried about their safety.

Concerns have been raised about street lighting, both in the road and along the footpath, with demands for extra lights to help people feel safer.

Cllr Roger Truelove (Lab), ward member for Homewood, which includes Ufton Lane, was contacted by residents and says police have since upped patrols in the area and hopes bushes along the path can be cut back.

“There is local anxiety following the recent incident,” he said.

“I have discussed the situation with the police, the Swale Community Safety Unit and the ward PCSO.

“As far as the police are concerned this was an isolated incident. They have not been able to make an arrest as yet.

Ufton Lane, Sittingbourne, where the woman was mugged
Ufton Lane, Sittingbourne, where the woman was mugged

“Extra surveillance has been put in and I will be discussing with the PCSO some local environmental changes that should help.

“I want people to be reassured, but I also urge residents to report every incident of potential criminal activity they experience.”

The suspect was said to be about 5ft 8in to 5ft 11in with a foreign accent. He wore a dark hooded top with the hood up and the scarf across his face was cream.

Police have investigated but confirmed no one had been arrested.

A spokesman said they were reviewing CCTV of the area but had not found any that could help identify the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01474 366149, quoting reference XY/039762/16, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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