By ANNA USHER

A 14-year-old from Neutral Bay has been charged with robbery after police allege he was part of a group that ambushed a teenager at Roseville Train Station, stealing his electric bike while one of the attackers was allegedly armed with a knife.

The victim – a Warrawee boy – had listed a Surron electric bike on a social media buy, swap, sell platform. Police allege the Neutral Bay teenager made contact online and the pair agreed to meet at Roseville station to complete the sale.

At 7pm on Tuesday, 5 May, the meeting turned violent.

After a brief exchange, three unknown boys arrived at the station. Police allege all four – including the Neutral Bay teenager – pushed the Warrawee boy and forcibly seized the bike.

One of the three unknown boys was allegedly armed with a knife.

North Shore Police launched an investigation and on Thursday, 14 May, officers executed a search warrant at the 14-year-old’s Neutral Bay home, placing him under arrest and seizing items relevant to the investigation.

He was taken to Chatswood Police Station and charged with “Robbery in company” – a charge that applies when a theft is carried out with at least one other person.

The teen is due to face Surry Hills Children’s Court in June.

North Shore Police are warning the community that social media buy, swap, sell platforms are being exploited by offenders targeting unsuspecting sellers.

They strongly encourage anyone selling items of value online to meet in daylight hours, choose busy, well-populated locations, bring a friend or family member and avoid isolated areas.

“Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk and help keep these transactions safe,” police said.