Violent Robbery Targets Youth in City Center
A 16-year-old boy was violently ambushed by a group of fourteen masked assailants while walking with a friend in Newcastle city center. Authorities confirm the January 2023 attack began when gang members noticed the victim’s designer streetwear.
Details of the Assault
Police reports indicate that after a member of the group commented on the teenager’s £250 jacket, the entire group encircled the pair near St Mary’s Place. Witnesses describe how four assailants blocked their path while ten others closed in from behind.
“They pinned him against a fence and delivered repeated blows to his face,” officials stated regarding the attack that left the victim with a split lip. The assailants allegedly threatened stabbing while stealing his designer coat, £600 smartphone, and £50 bag.
Aftermath and Investigation
In a victim impact statement, the teenager revealed: “I was having a good night with my friend when my life was threatened by this large group. The physical and emotional injuries have stayed with me.”
Criminal Prosecutions Follow
Mohammed Moufareh, 19, was identified wearing the stolen coat minutes after the robbery and later connected through fingerprint evidence on the recovered phone. Subsequent investigations in November led to Moufareh’s arrest during an undercover drug operation where he was found carrying crack cocaine and ammonia concealed in a children’s drink bottle.
Court documents reveal Moufareh pleaded guilty to multiple charges including robbery, drug trafficking, and possession of an offensive weapon. He received a four-year, eight-month prison sentence despite receiving youth sentencing considerations for being under 18 during some offenses.
A co-defendant, Kalalu Berhane, 20, received a 12-month community order for handling stolen goods. Defense representatives stated both men expressed remorse and aspirations for university education upon release.
Authorities continue to investigate potential connections to other unsolved robberies involving similar suspect descriptions in the Newcastle area.
