Detectives in West Lothian are appealing for information after two children were robbed of e-bikes.
The first incident happened around 6.20pm on Tuesday, 12 May, 2026, on the footpath between Martin Brae and Fulmar Brae in Livingston. A boy was approached and threatened before the bike was taken.
The suspect is described as a white male youth, aged between 14 and 16-years-old, around 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing a black beanie hat with the letters YL on the front, a black balaclava, grey tracksuit, black trainers and black gloves. He spoke with a local accent.
The second incident happened around 8pm on Tuesday, 5 May, 2026, on Greendykes road in Broxburn. A man got out of a white Ford Transit van and approached a boy before assaulting him and taking the bike. The boy was not injured.
The suspect is described as around 6ft tall, of slim build and was wearing a grey balaclava covering his face, grey/black long sleeve top and black work style trousers.
The incidents are not believed to be linked however officers are keeping an open mind.
Detective Inspector Lee Beaumont said: “While neither boy was injured, they were both left extremely shaken and I understand these incidents will be concerning for the community.
“I’d like to reassure the community that our enquiries are ongoing and I am asking anyone who witnessed these incidents, or who has any information, to come forward and speak to officers.”
DI Beaumont added: “I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people that the use of certain types of e-bikes on roads and public paths is not only illegal, but also dangerous with several people having suffered significant injury from falling or being involved in a crash. In addition, these types of bikes are being targeted to be used for criminality.
“Officers will continue to stop and seize illegally used e-bikes, and we would urge members of the public to only use those designed and intended for use on the road and not place themselves and others in danger.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland, quoting incident number 2856 for the incident on 12 May and 2811 for the incident on 5 May.
Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
