This appeal has since been closed by police as the man has been identified. 

Thames Valley Police has released an image of a man officers believe may have witnessed a person being in possession of a knife in public in Oxford.

At around 1.30pm on January 9, an offender was seen in the city centre with a knife hanging out of the back of their trousers.

About half an hour later, the offender entered Premier Stores on Pegasus Road, Blackbird Leys, Oxford.

While in the store, they dropped a knife on the floor.

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A 32-year-old man from Oxford was arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife in a public place on January 9.

He has been released on police bail until 6 April.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Steve Nicklin, based at St Aldates police station in Oxford, said: “I am appealing for anyone who recognises the man pictured in this image to please get in touch.

“He is a key witness in the investigation and I believe that he would have seen the bladed article being dropped in the shop.

“I would like to make contact with him to see if he is willing to assist in the investigation.

“To contact us, call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43230012129.

“Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1