Police are investigating a series of violent robberies by a gang of teenage thugs armed with a stun gun.
The gang of youths electrocuted people during six robberies in Stevenage, Herts,. leaving one victim needing hospital treatment.
They carried out the attacks on Friday evening and used a stun gun on each of their victims leaving them with face and neck injuries.
After inflicting the electric shock they stole cash and mobile phones. Victims have told police that the weapon was carried by one of six men aged 16 to 18 years old.
A spokeswoman for Hertfordshire police, which has arrested three teenagers in connection with the attacks, revealed the stun gun is not police issue.
She said: ”The ones used by police have barbs on them which are emitted into the subject when the Taser is charged, instead this Taser must be pressed into the skin.
”The victims are not incapacitated like they would be with a police Taser, but received a short sharp shock and pain.
”It is a prohibited weapon and an offence to carry one.”
Stun guns, which use electrical current to cause involuntary muscle contractions, were introduced as a non-lethal police weapon to subdue fleeing suspects.
The robberies took place in Upper Sean, Shephall Green and Shephall Way, Stevenage, Herts,. between 6pm and 8pm on Friday, January 28.
During the robberies a small quantity of cash, a blackberry mobile, a Samsung Tako phone, a Nokia 7100 Supernova, a Nokia C3 and black leather case were stolen from the victims.
Investigating officer, DI Gary Atkinson, added that three men have now been arrested on suspicion of carrying out the robberies.
He said: ”Robberies of this nature are extremely rare in Hertfordshire and we are working hard to bring those responsible to justice.
”Three people have been arrested in connection with the robberies and there are further suspects we would like to speak to.
”I am appealing for anyone who may have witnessed any of the robberies or who may have seen a group of young men in this area of Stevenage acting suspiciously, to get in touch.
”I’d also be interested to speak to anyone who may have been offered any of the stolen items for sale.”
Two boys aged 17 and 16 years-old from Stevenage have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and released on bail.
Another 17 year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and remains in custody.
Anyone with information is asked contact DI Atkinson on the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222.
