Man Charged Following Shocking Armed Robbery of 12-Year-Old Boy in Coatbridge Park

COATBRIDGE, North Lanarkshire — A 26-year-old man has been arrested and charged by Police Scotland following a distressing armed robbery in a local park that targeted a young schoolboy.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at around 4:30 p.m. in the West End Park area of Coatbridge. A 12-year-old boy was riding his electric bicycle when he was approached by a man. The suspect threatened the schoolboy before forcibly stealing his electric bike and fleeing the scene.

Although the young victim did not sustain any physical injuries, police reported that the encounter left him "extremely shaken." The robbery caused significant concern among local parents and park users, prompting a swift police response.

Following a public appeal for information and inquiries by local officers, detectives confirmed that a 26-year-old suspect had been identified, arrested, and charged in connection with the crime. The man was held in police custody and scheduled to make an initial appearance at Airdrie Sheriff Court on Monday, March 2, 2026.

Inspector Stephen McManus of Police Scotland thanked the public for their assistance during the investigation, emphasizing that crimes targeting violent offenses in community spaces will be dealt with robustly.