17-year-old accused of chip shop robbery

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, is the third person to appear in court charged in connection with the robbery on September 4.

The teen is further charged with possession of an offensive weapon, possession of cocaine with intent to supply and possession of a Class A drug.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard allegations that £1,000 was taken during the robbery at the chip shop on Spencer Road.

It is alleged three men made off in a silver car which was involved in a collision with another vehicle stopped at traffic lights.

The car was found on the Victoria Road and during a search police seized £750 of cocaine in the boot.

The 17-year-old was arrested after police viewed CCTV from the chip shop.

An investigating officer said police had identified the defendant from the footage and believe they can also link him to the vehicle.

The court heard that the PSNI are also liaising with Gardai who believe the same three defendants were involved with an incident at a shop in Fahan, Co. Donegal.

The court was told this was a ‘particularly brutal’ incident and a lot of damage was caused to the shop.

During police interview, the teenager denied any involvement and claimed he was with a number of friends on the night in question.

The investigating officer opposed bail because of the ‘violent’ nature of the alleged robbery.

She said police also have concerns he will interfere with witnesses.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said his client has no previous criminal record and could be released on bail with a number of stringent conditions.

Deputy District Judge Austin Kennedy refused the application and the teen was remanded in custody to appear in court again on September 27.