Teenager's jaw broken as youths steal iPod

A 14-YEAR-OLD boy was knocked unconscious and suffered a fractured jaw after an "appalling" robbery, police said yesterday.

The youngster had been threatened with a bladed weapon before being punched repeatedly during the attack in the west end of Glasgow at about 10pm last night. His mobile phone and iPod were stolen during the incident.

The victim was in Burnbank Gardens Park, North Woodside, with two friends when they were approached by a group of six to eight youths.

One of the group threatened the victim with the bladed weapon then punched him several times, knocking him out. When the 14-year-old came to he noticed that his mobile phone, iPod and his friend's mobile had been taken from his pockets.

Detective Constable Jim Duncan of Strathclyde Police said: "The victim has sustained a fractured jaw and is understandably very distressed at what he has been through. To be knocked unconscious for a mobile phone and iPod is appalling. However, thankfully, the young boy is recovering at home.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area of Burnbank Gardens between 10pm and 10.30pm last night, and who saw a group of youths entering or leaving the park. Also, I would ask if anyone knows anything at all to please come forward.

"It is imperative that we trace those responsible."

The victim and his friends made their way home after the attack and contacted police, who are now carrying out inquiries in the area.

The main suspect is described as aged 15 or 16, 5ft 8in, slim and with braces on his teeth. He was wearing a light grey beanie hat.