Teen Thug Snatches Stranger off Street, Forces ATM Cash Grab
A 16-year-old boy from Enfield has been locked up after snatching a stranger off the street and forcing him to withdraw £230 from an ATM.
Kidnap and Robbery on Bell Lane
The youngster, who can’t be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to kidnap and robbery at Highbury Corner Youth Court on April 28. He was handed a four-month detention training order.
The shocking attack happened on August 15, 2019. The 15-year-old attacker was riding a dodgy moped with no number plate along Bell Lane, Enfield.
He suddenly zoomed onto the pavement and stopped a terrified 16-year-old pedestrian.
Knife Threats and Forced ATM Withdrawal
The thug interrogated the victim, asking “Where do you live?” and “I haven’t seen you around here before.” Then he demanded the victim empty his pockets.
When the victim said he had no cash, the attacker claimed he had a knife.
“If you don’t get on the back of the moped, I’ll stab you,” he threatened.
Terrified, the victim complied. The teen drove him to a bank on Hertford Road. There, he forced the victim to enter his PIN and withdraw £230.
The teen then fled with the cash, abandoning the stunned victim who retrieved his bank card and sat on a nearby bench.
Bystanders Rally as Police Close in
Bystanders comforted the distressed teen before a passer-by drove him home. After telling his dad, police were called.
Met detectives sprang into action, reviewing CCTV from the bank where the masked suspect was clearly caught on camera.
The suspect was arrested on January 31 and refused to answer questions.
The victim then identified him in an ID parade, sealing the case.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
“This was an absolutely despicable crime, which understandably left the victim extremely traumatised,” said Detective Constable Jade Lubin.
“I’d like to thank the victim for the courage he showed throughout the investigation. His help built a strong case, forcing the defendant to plead guilty.”
She added, “Even in these tough times, the Met is cracking down hard on violent crime. We won’t tolerate anyone thinking they’re above the law.”
