The reason? Because the mugger was hurt in a scuffle that ensued after he attempted – and failed – steal his victim’s phone. The target, who’s known as Yuan, was also ordered to three months probation, according to AFP.

The thief, who is known as Zeng, apparently attempted to steal the target’s phone in Dongguan. But instead of taking the device, Yuan and two others chased after the mugger and beat him up.

Zeng reported the incident, which occurred in February, to the police. The three victims-turns-assailants turned themselves into the police after.

But why are they in trouble? Because they failed to report the attempted robbery, according to the publication. The original article also failed to note whether Zeng, the mugger, is in trouble with the law for the attempted mugging.