Balaclava thugs jailed for terror blitz on eight victims in under two hours
AJ Katnoria, Samuel Phillips, and Ben Hoey wore balaclavas as they struck fear into eight victims in less than two hours. Now, the trio face a combined 15 years behind bars.
Night of terror on January 13
The stabbings and assaults unfolded between 8.50pm and 10.15pm on January 13, 2024. Victims ranged from just 13 to 29 years old. Phillips and Katnoria approached their targets on foot, while Hoey waited in a nearby car, ready to help them escape and seek out more victims.
Swift arrests and heavy sentences
By 11.10pm, police had snapped up Katnoria and Hoey following fast-track investigations. Both were charged with multiple offences, including robbery attempts and assault. Katnoria and Phillips also pleaded guilty to cannabis possession.
On June 25, Katnoria and Hoey were locked up for five years and three months each. Phillips got four years and seven months.
Police slam ‘vile’ attackers targeting children
Detective Sergeant John-Paul Foley from North Kent CID ripped into the gang: “These men scoured the streets hunting vulnerable victims, including several children. They masked their faces and worked as a team to terrorise and attack before fleeing in a vehicle to find their next target.
“The youngest victim was just 13, pushed to the floor and threatened with death. Every victim suffered physical or psychological harm. I hope these tough prison sentences offer some reassurance and make the community feel safer.”
