Schoolboy, 13, robbed and threatened with 'bladed weapon' by teen in balaclava in Livingston

Police are appealing for information after a 13-year-old boy was robbed by a teenager with a bladed weapon in West Lothian.

Officers said the robbery took place as the schoolboy was walking along Lanark Avenue near the junction with Carmondean Centre Road in Livingston around 12.45pm on Saturday, November 16.

He was then approached by a teenager wearing a balaclava who demanded money and his mobile phone.

The suspect threatened the boy with what he claimed was a bladed weapon before pushing him to the ground and running off with his mobile phone.

The suspect is described as white, 14 to 15 years of age, 5ft 8in in height, of average build, and was wearing dark tracksuit trousers, a dark puffer-style jacket and a balaclava.

Detective Inspector Keith Sinclair, Livingston CID, said: “Thankfully, the teenager was uninjured but what happened was very upsetting for him, especially when the suspect claimed to have a weapon.

“Officers are checking CCTV and carrying out enquiries in the area but are keen to hear from anyone who may recognise the description of the youth responsible or who can help with their investigation.

“It’s possible the suspect had been hanging about the street just before the robbery, so we would also like to view any doorbell or dash-cam footage from the area as it may have captured either the incident or an image of him.”

Information can be passed to officers via 101 by quoting incident number 1699 of Saturday, November 16 2024 when calling.

Alternatively, details can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.