Friday 2 October 2009

Bandit Brothers' Bookies Blag Blitz



Two old-school blaggers, who donned masks and threatened staff with shooters during a string of armed stick-ups, were caged for six years today (Friday) after being captured by The Sweeney.

The 70’s throwback brothers – who targeted bookies in North London and Hertfordshire - were collared following a Flying Squad surveillance operation codenamed Catchwater.

Nelson Muzinga, (pictured), 23, and Ivo Muzinga, 18, both of Moree Way, Edmonton, were sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court after admitting the crime spree.

They burst into betting shops wielding guns, threatening staff and customers and made off with large amounts of cash.

Their reign of terror was ended by Finchley’s Flying Squad team who swooped on the pair on June 18.

Both pleaded guilty to four robberies, two attempted robberies, plus five counts of possessing a firearm or imitation firearm with intent to rob.

Nelson asked for three further robberies to be taken into consideration, plus three counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to rob.

Ivo asked for five further robberies to be taken into consideration, plus five counts of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to rob.

Detective Inspector David Malcolm, whose investigation nailed the pair said: "The Muzinga brothers terrified the staff and customers they encountered as they raided bookmakers with handguns.

“The weapons were often pointed straight at the victims to ensure the maximum amount of money was handed over.

“Robberies of this nature are a priority for the Flying Squad and the conviction of these men demonstrates the Met's continued commitment to bringing such dangerous criminals to justice."

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