Masked men from Oldham jailed for 'terrifying' attempted robbery

Two masked men who used an imitation firearm to hold up two women in an attempted robbery have been jailed for a total of three years, following a British Transport Police investigation. 

Hasan Ali, now aged 23, of Harper Street, Oldham and Junaid Ahmed, now aged 22, of Villa Road, Oldham each pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted robbery and were sentenced yesterday (Tuesday) to 30 months each in jail at Bolton Crown Court. 

The court heard how, on Thursday, January 9, 2020, two women in their 30s were returning to their cars in the car park of Manchester Victoria station when they were approached by Ahmed and Ali, who were teenagers at the time. 

Both demanded cash from the women before Ali produced an imitation forearm in a bid to frighten them into handing over cash.

Ahmed then made repeated threats about shooting the victims if they refused to comply with their demands.

One of the women offered some loose change from her pocket before heading to her car under the pretence of finding some cash inside.

Once inside the car she managed to shut the door despite Ali attempting to prevent her from doing so.

The second woman quickly followed suit and got in the passenger seat and both locked their doors.

The women then called police and Ahmed and Ali fled the scene.

A lengthy investigation followed with Ahmed identified from a media appeal published in local press which prompted an anonymous call to Crimestoppers.

He was arrested at his home address.

Intel revealed that Ali had fled to Pakistan following the incident – he eventually handed himself into police.

Both initially denied the offences before pleading guilty.

Investigating officer DC Tim Friend said: “This was a terrifying experience for the two women, who, having finished work for the day, headed to their cars to drive home.

"Ali and Ahmed were lying in wait with the sole purpose of frightening and intimidating them into handing over money.

“The women showed considerable bravery by their quick thinking and we commend them for assisting with our investigation.

"It is hoped that now, after five long years, they will gain some comfort from the knowledge that their assailants are now behind bars.

“Ali and Ahmed acted in an extremely cowardly manner.

"They deliberately targeted two isolated female victims before fleeing when their plans went awry, fully expecting never to be caught."

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