A court has heard that two teenagers, Dylan Ash and Keiron Ellison, have been accused of making hoax bomb threats to gain online 'clout'. The 17-year-olds, from Wales, are said to have carried out the pranks to increase their online presence.
The pair allegedly made multiple hoax bomb threats to schools, police stations, and other public places, causing fear and disruption in the communities.
Prosecutors claim the motive behind the actions was to gain online 'clout', with the duo seeking to boost their social media profiles and enhance their reputations.
It is understood that the 'Monkey Mafia' group, of which Ash and Ellison are allegedly part, was responsible for the hoax threats. The group's members allegedly shared videos and messages online, claiming to have planted bombs in various locations.
Both defendants deny the charges against them. The trial continues.