Teen robbers’ 10-year spree

Two teenage robbers terrorised victims across Greater Manchester in a 10-day crime spree.

The pair, aged 14 and 17 and both from Failsworth, targeted eight people between October 29 and November 10, last year.

They approached their victims by asking for the time or to “hear their tunes” before stealing valuable items such as mp3 players or mobile phones.

Two of their attacks were on buses — with the pair cornering the victims — and on one occasion the 14-year-old said: “I’ll cut your mum up and put her in a suitcase.”

At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester, the 17-year-old, who has learning difficulties, pleaded guilty to four counts of robbery and two attempted robberies. He was sentenced to 18 months’ detention.

The 14-year-old pleaded guilty to five counts of robbery and one attempted robbery and received eight months’ detention and training.

The majority of the robberies took place in Oldham and Ashton.

Judge Bernard Lever described their behaviour as “absolutely disgraceful”.