Police Warning Over Suffocating 'Sleeper' Craze

Schoolchildren are suffocating other pupils as part of a dangerous craze that has left at least one child in hospital and prompted a warning from police.

The 'Sleeper' prank involves one child covering the mouth and nose of a younger pupil until they pass out from lack of oxygen.

Police say the craze is potentially fatal and that one child - believed to be eight years old - was being treated in hospital after being targeted.

A warning posted Greater Manchester Police North on their Facebook page said: "Attention all parents/guardians. We have received reports of a new craze called 'Sleeper'.

"This involves children completely covering the mouth and noses of younger children until they completely pass out.

"This is extremely dangerous. A child is currently in hospital being treated after falling victim to this game.

"Please advise every child you know and warn them of the dangers. This could easily lead to concussion or even death."

Commenters on the Facebook warning expressed horror at the news, with Anthony Melia writing: "Does that not come under 'attempted murder'?? Cutting off someone's oxygen supply."

Nicola Woods wrote: "This happened to my son twice and I informed the CSPO of this. It is disgusting. I hope that the poor child makes a full recovery and the parents of the child who has done it are spoken to."

Others suggested the prank had existed for many years and called for action to stop it.