A thug who snatched a 76-year-old’s phone and threatened him with a knife has been jailed for over three years. Denzel Nyamutora, 25, with no fixed address, was locked up for three years and seven months at Bristol Crown Court on Tuesday, 9 December.
Knife-Wielding Robbery on Train Shocks Passengers
On Thursday 17 April 2025, just before 2pm, Nyamutora boarded a train from Weston-super-Mare to Bristol Temple Meads. When the train stopped in Worle, he spotted an elderly man’s phone left unattended on a table. Nyamutora quickly snatched the device.
When the pensioner challenged him, the thug pulled out a knife and snarled, “f*** off,” leaving the victim terrified.
British Transport Police Act Fast to Nab Knife Criminal
The shaken victim immediately told station staff at Bristol Temple Meads. British Transport Police (BTP), also investigating a fare evasion, spotted Nyamutora on the platform. Officers knew he was on bail with strict orders not to travel by train.
Upon arrest, police found two knives hidden on Nyamutora—one in his bag and another concealed in his coat. He was charged with robbery and possession of bladed weapons.
Swift Justice for Vulnerable Elderly Man
“Nyamutora’s violent actions against a vulnerable elderly man will not be tolerated,” said a BTP spokesperson. “Thanks to our officers, he was swiftly brought to justice.”
Nyamutora pleaded guilty to robbery and two counts of possessing bladed articles. His hefty sentence sends a strong warning to anyone thinking of causing trouble on the railways.
