Teenager Targeted by Masked Gang Over Designer Streetwear in Newcastle
A 16-year-old boy has courageously spoken out after being subjected to a vicious attack by a gang of fourteen masked individuals while walking with a friend in Newcastle city centre. The assault, which occurred on January 14, 2023, was reportedly triggered when the group noticed the teenager wearing expensive designer clothing.
Violent Confrontation Following Innocent Comment
The terrifying ordeal began as the two friends walked past the large group. Someone from the gang remarked "nice coat", referring to the victim's £250 Trapstar jacket. Despite the teenager ignoring the comment and attempting to change direction, the group pursued him, surrounding him to prevent any escape.
The balaclava-clad assailants then pinned the boy against a fence and repeatedly punched him in the face, resulting in a split lip. During the violent confrontation, they threatened to stab him before stealing his designer coat, £600 iPhone, and £50 bag.
Victim's Emotional Impact Statement
In a powerful victim impact statement, the teenager expressed the profound effect the attack has had on his life. "I want it to be known I'm a 16-year-old kid who was having a good night with my friend," he stated. "I was attacked and made to feel my life was threatened by a much larger group of people. I've been injured physically and emotionally."
Prosecution Details the Coordinated Attack
Prosecutor Daisy Wrigley outlined how the gang executed their plan with disturbing coordination. "Four of them split off and ran ahead of them and the other ten followed from behind," she explained. "Four of them confronted them and asked where they were from. They ignored them and changed direction. As they did so, the large group from behind confronted them."
The victims attempted to flee to St Mary's Place seeking assistance, but unfortunately found no passing traffic or immediate help available. The gang then closed in on the teenager, leading to the violent physical assault.
Police Investigation and Evidence Recovery
Northumbria Police were promptly alerted to the incident. Within minutes, officers spotted Mohammed Moufareh wearing the stolen coat. The victim's mobile phone was later discovered hidden under a rock near the civic centre, with Moufareh's fingerprints identified on the device.
Subsequent Arrest and Drug Offences
In a separate incident on November 23, plain clothes officers observed Moufareh emerging from Haymarket Metro Station and handing an item to another man, suspected to be a drug transaction. When police moved to arrest him, Moufareh attempted to flee but was apprehended.
Upon search, officers discovered he was carrying:
- A bottle of Fruit Shoot containing ammonia
- Deals of crack cocaine worth approximately £100
- His mobile phone contained bulk messages advertising drugs for sale
Court Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
Mohammed Moufareh, 19, of Gateshead, pleaded guilty to multiple offences including:
- Robbery
- Possessing crack cocaine with intent to supply
- Possessing an offensive weapon
- Handling stolen goods related to another robbery of a 16-year-old in June the previous year
Kalalu Berhane, 20, of Byker, was convicted of handling stolen goods following a trial.
Moufareh received a total prison sentence of four years and eight months, taking into account his age at the time of earlier offences which entitled him to a reduced sentence. Berhane was given a 12-month community order.
Defence Statements and Future Aspirations
Defence barrister Tony Cornberg noted that Moufareh had already spent nine months in prison on remand and expressed his client's desire to attend university and pursue barbering upon release.
Helen Towers, representing Berhane, stated her client showed remorse for his actions and also aspired to university education, with his family described as ambitious for their children's futures.
This disturbing case highlights the serious consequences of youth violence and the lasting impact such traumatic experiences have on young victims, while also demonstrating the judicial system's response to such coordinated criminal activities.
