FOUR teenagers have been arrested after a 13-year old was robbed at knife point in Bury.

The victim of the incident, which occurred at about 10.30pm last night, is now safe, according to police.

The four offenders, who were in a silver Honda Civic, approached the 13-year-old, threatening him with a knife until he handed over his mobile phone, cash and other personal possessions.

The boy then ran home where he told his parents about the incident. They reported the robbery to police and provided the number plate and make of the vehicle the teenagers were driving.

A police helicopter, tactical vehicle intercept unit (TVIU), armed response vehicle (ARV) and road policing unit (RPU) were called upon to track down the vehicle.

Specially trained officers deployed a stinger — a tyre deflation device or weapon — in Bury New Road to bring the vehicle to a stop and prevent a high-speed pursuit.

Four teenage boys, aged 15, 16, 16 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of robbery. A knife along with the victim’s property was also recovered inside the vehicle. 

Officers shared a photograph of the knife and pair of gloves which were found on the back seat of the Honda, which they have seized.

Chief Inspector Jamie Collins, of Greater Manchester Police's Bury district, said: “Although the boy was not physically injured, he has understandably been left shaken by what happened. No one should be subject to such a terrifying ordeal.

“Thanks to the skills of the trained officers and the quick thinking of the victim to take the details of the vehicle, we have been able to arrest four suspects and recover the victim’s property.

“If anyone has any information relating to this robbery that you think may assist us with our enquiries, then please get in touch and tell us what you know."

Greater Manchester Police also tweeted about the incident: "RESULT. Whilst you were sleeping officers from our TVIU and ARV arrested four teenagers on suspicion of robbery involving a knife in Bury.

"Victim safe and property returned.

"Stinger deployed to prevent pursuit.

"No injuries to officers or public.

"Assisted by NPAS and RPU."

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 8149 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.