Knife-Wielding Robber Jailed for Six Years after Terrifying Epsom and Ewell Attacks
Masked Machete Raider Terrorises Shops
Anthony Akinniranye, 20, from Manor Green Road, Epsom, has been locked up for six years after two terrifying knifepoint robberies just days after Christmas 2023.
On December 27, Akinniranye stormed a shop on East Street, Epsom, wearing a mask and wielding a machete. He threatened staff and demanded cash, cigarettes, and vapes before fleeing — leaving behind a trail of clues including coins, cigarette packets, and a till insert.
Forensic experts matched his DNA to the items left at the scene. CCTV footage also captured him clutching the till insert during the hold-up.
Strikes Again Just 24 Hours Later
Undeterred, Akinniranye struck again the very next evening on Kingston Road, Ewell. The drunken machete man repeated his method — threatening staff, demanding cash and cigarettes while masked.
CCTV showed him casing the shop the night before wearing the same clothes as in the first heist.
He made off with over £1,000 in stolen cash within a day of his second robbery.
Forensics and CCTV Seal His Fate
Police launched a hard-hitting investigation, combining forensic evidence with CCTV footage to finger Akinniranye as their man.
He was arrested and charged with two counts of robbery. On October 30 at Chichester Crown Court, the judge sentenced him to a hefty six-year stretch behind bars.
Detective Praises Team, Warns Off Other Criminals
“Akinniranye showed no care for the trauma he caused staff or the damage to businesses,” said Detective Constable Sarah Kinkade of East Surrey CID.
“But thanks to his sloppy getaway and dropped items with his DNA, we tracked him down. This is a clear warning: these crimes won’t be tolerated, and we will hunt down offenders until they face justice.”
Local Shock and Relief
Shocked shopworkers in Epsom and Ewell have welcomed the sentencing. Many hope this tough jail term will scare off future knife criminals targeting their community.
This case highlights how forensic science and relentless police work can bring violent criminals to justice, protect businesses, and keep the streets safer for everyone.
