A MAN who took part in a violent robbery in Wilsden was one of two criminals given sentences totalling 18 and a half years for carjacking offences in the Bradford area.

Waqas Hussain, 20 (pictured) was given 12 years after he was found guilty on five counts as well as possession of a firearm.

A 15-year-old boy from Bradford, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was also jailed for six and a half years at Bradford Crown Court last Thursday. (July 20)

Hussain, of Fearnsides Terrace in Girlington, was not present in court for the sentencing after absconding during the trial. Enquiries are continuing to locate him.

Among the offences he was sentenced for was a robbery in St Matthew’s Grove in Wilsden last October, where a man in his 40s was dragged from his Volkswagen Golf R and tasered by men with weapons.

Another offence in Halifax Road, Wibsey, in November 2016, saw a lone woman with a baby threatened with a firearm before a VW Polo was taken. The vehicle was later recovered.

Hussain was also found guilty of an offence in The Grove, Idle last November, where he and his teenage accomplice robbed a man in his 40s, who was struck with a pick axe and dragged from his Volkswagen Golf GTD.

In addition, the teenager was found guilty of three attempt robberies, dangerous driving and a make off without payment offence.

Speaking after the sentencing, detective inspector Ian Bryar of Bradford District CID, said: “These were very serious offences in which Hussain and others used violence to steal desirable cars from vulnerable victims.

“Our enquiries into these incidents and other similar matters are continuing to identify the others who took part in these terrifying robberies.

“Violent crime will not be tolerated and the sentences passed should serve as a deterrent to others.”

Anyone with information about those suspected of being involved in violent crime can contact police on 101, or pass information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.