Masked Gang Terrorise Family in Terrifying Aggravated Burglary
Police swooped in the early hours of December 20 after a violent armed robbery at a flat on Crasswell Street. A gang of balaclava-clad men burst in, wielding serrated knives and threatening the occupants with a hot iron.
Victims Bound and Threatened
The intruders tied up a man in his 50s, his two sons in their 20s, and a woman in her 20s using cable ties, packaging tape, and electrical cables. They demanded money and jewellery before slashing one son’s face, leaving him with a permanent scar.
Once the gang fled, the victims freed themselves and alerted emergency services. The robbers made off with watches, phones, and trainers — most of which were never recovered.
Police Chase Down Suspects in Essex Van
Shortly after, officers spotted a van from Essex near the scene. They followed and stopped it, arresting four men inside:
- Levar Greaves, 29, Gibb Field Close, Essex
- Adebowale Adeduro Mafo, 37, Eastham Mannor Way, London
- Aaron Murray, 26, Sunlight Mews, Essex
- Malakye Tomlin, 25, Fairway, Chelmsford
The van contained a victim’s coat, a stolen bank card, and balaclavas matching witness descriptions. Footwear worn by the gang was linked to marks at the flat, and chilling texts on a suspect’s phone revealed the crime was planned.
Justice Served: Prison for Three, Community Order for One
After a 13-day trial at sussex999.co.uk/where/portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth Crown Court, Greaves, Mafo, and Murray were unanimously found guilty of aggravated burglary. Tomlin was convicted of the lesser charge of burglary, believed to have had a smaller role.
Yesterday, Greaves, Mafo, and Murray received 11-year prison sentences each. They must serve at least two-thirds before parole. Tomlin was handed a Community Order with 100 hours of unpaid work, rehabilitation, and a victim surcharge.
Detective Constable Helen Carthew said:
“This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims. The crime was clearly planned, but swift police action stopped them escaping. We don’t underestimate the impact such violent crimes have. I hope this sentence helps the victims move forward and sends a message that violent crime will never be tolerated.”
Victims’ Voices: “I Thought I Might Die”
In court, the victims shared their harrowing experiences:
“I thought this would only ever happen on the news or TV, never to me. At first, I hoped it was a nightmare, but it was real.”
“Every noise now makes me panic, wondering if someone’s breaking in. I felt so vulnerable, tied up in my underwear. I thought I might die.”
“The mental scars may last longer than the physical ones.”
