A brazen thief who attempted to snatch a £250,000 Richard Mille watch from a pedestrian on one of London's most exclusive streets has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison. Brahim Keddad, 29, from Islington, was arrested on the spot by plain-clothes officers who witnessed the entire incident unfold.
Caught in the act on Jermyn Street
The attempted robbery occurred on Jermyn Street, a renowned shopping destination in Central London known for its high-end boutiques and luxury clientele. Keddad was spotted by a car full of plain-clothes officers because he was acting suspiciously, according to the Metropolitan Police. One officer decided to get out of the vehicle to keep a closer eye on him.
Keddad was observed walking slowly, closely watching passers-by. He then mounted a Lime bike and followed a man down the road, attempting to snatch the expensive timepiece off his wrist. The quick-thinking officer, backed up by a passer-by, intervened and arrested Keddad, with three other officers arriving shortly after to assist.
Police praise plain-clothes patrols
Detective Sergeant Any Swindells highlighted the importance of plain-clothed patrols in preventing such crimes. “This case highlights the invaluable benefit of plain-clothed officers being on patrol,” Swindells said. “We were able to spot and arrest Keddad within minutes, returning the valuable watch to its owner and preventing others who live or visit in London from being victims.”
The sentencing took place today, August 7, at a London court. Keddad was handed a two-year and four-month prison sentence for attempted robbery.
Impact on neighbourhood crime
Swindells also noted that such proactive policing is having a measurable impact across the capital. “Our work is having an impact, with neighbourhood crime – things like theft and robbery, down by 14% in the past year – the equivalent to 35,000 fewer offences reported across London,” she said.
The Met continues to carry out intelligence-led patrols and targeted operations to identify offenders, disrupt criminal networks and protect the public. “As a result, we’re getting more offenders like Keddad off the street,” Swindells added.
Keddad's failed attempt serves as a stark reminder that London's streets are under watch, even when officers are not in uniform. The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was able to retain his valuable possession thanks to the swift action of the police and a brave bystander.
