£250k theft of cars from firm by gang

A TEENAGER was punched to the ground after refusing to hand over his wallet.

The 18-year-old was attacked twice by a suspect who stole his cigarettes and left him with cuts and bruises on his face.

It happened during the evening on Sunday and the early hours of Monday.

There was a gathering of youths at Sunny Bank Farm on Sunny Bank Lane in the Hipperholme and Hove Edge area, where people had got together and were listening to music.

The victim was approached by the suspect, who was part of a group of males, who demanded money and his wallet.

The victim refused and was then assaulted.

Police said the victim tried to get away but was assaulted again by being punched to the floor. His pockets were then searched.

The group of youths included white and Asian males, all around 17 to 19 years. They were described as wearing tracksuit bottoms, T-shirts, hoodies and trainers.

Det Cons Lee Mason from Halifax CID, said: “I would like to appeal to members of the public who may have been in the area and witnessed anything or recognise the description of the people to get in touch to assist with our ongoing enquiry.”

Contact Det Con Mason via 101 quoting crime reference number 13180362030 or members of the public can contact the force via the LiveChat facility: https://www. westyorkshire.police. uk/101LiveChat

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. have involved at least six gang members who took four cars and then returned for five more.

It is believed they broke in around 1am and then left the scene for around 30 minutes. The cars were taken over the next two hours.

The cars were driven from the scene in the direction of Manchester. A Peugeot 308 GTI was later recovered by police.

Police – who have arrested two men aged 27 and 29 – are appealing for information about the burglary.

Det Con Joanne Jabczynski, of Kirklees CID, said: “The victim is a hard-working local businessman who is well established and respected in the motor trade business.

“The impact this incident has had on him is significant – not only the high financial loss but also the impact of dealing with the aftermath caused to his daily trading as a result of the damage left behind.

“We are appealing to members of the public if they have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity between midnight and 4.30am on the day to come forward with any information to assist with our investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Jabczynski on 01484 436524 or call 101, quoting reference 13180550769.