Samurai Sword Robbers Sent Down for Terrorising Leeds Shops
Two men who wielded samurai swords during a spree of terrifying robberies at Leeds convenience stores have been jailed for a combined 15 years.
Detective’s Sharp Eye Cracks the Case
Detective Constable Alan Andrews of the Leeds District Crime Team was key in cracking the case. He recognised one masked thief by his voice and distinctive walk, despite their efforts to hide behind balaclavas and face coverings. DC Andrews boasts he’s the bane of east Leeds criminals who flaunt their “no face, no case” mantra on social media.
Three Armed Attacks Rock Leeds Shops
- December 13, 2021: Three masked men with swords storm Skelton Wood Post Office in Whinmoor, menacing staff and escaping with cash, cigarettes, and booze.
- December 23, 2021: The gang hits Londis on Wetherby Road, threatening a lone female worker with swords while demanding cash and cigarettes. One thug, Brandon Jarrett, terrorised the terrified woman and tried to force her to open the till.
- December 29, 2021: At the Co-op on Selby Road, Leeds, Jarrett guarded the door with a sword while accomplices raided the tills and tobacco shelves.
Brave Customer Fights Back, Robbers Flee
During the Londis raid, a courageous customer confronted the robbers despite being threatened with a knife. After warning them to “make it quick and leave,” he hurled a box of beer bottles at the gang and chased them out with another heavy box. Shaken staff survived uninjured.
Police Trail Leads to Arrests
Minutes after the last robbery, DC Andrews viewed CCTV footage and identified Jeffrey Chikosha by his distinctive walk. Investigations uncovered taxi rides, phone contacts, and a distinctive coat linked to Jarrett found at a family home.
Voice recognition experts confirmed Chikosha’s identity from CCTV audio. Both men denied involvement initially but were later charged with three armed robberies and possession of samurai swords.
Sentences Handed Down at Leeds Crown Court
At Leeds Crown Court, 25-year-old Jeffrey Chikosha of Osmondthorpe was jailed for nine years. Brandon Jarrett, 23, from Halifax, received six years and nine months. The duo had previously been jailed for vehicle theft but returned swiftly to a life of crime after their release in November 2021.
Detectives Praise ‘Incredible Bravery’
“Jarrett and Chikosha are prolific criminals who subjected innocent people to terrifying ordeals,” said Detective Inspector Vicky Vessey.
“Their samurai sword-wielding raids left victims fearing serious harm. The bravery of the customer who confronted them helped end these attacks before anyone was hurt. We’ll formally recognise his courage.”
“Offenders like these brag about ‘no face, no case’ while masked, but DC Andrews’ expertise proved them dead wrong.”
The crackdown sends a strong message to armed robbers terrorising Leeds and offers some comfort to the shaken victims.
