Man Charged with Theft of £150,000 Antique Violin from North London Pub
A man has been formally charged with theft after allegedly stealing a violin valued at £150,000 from a north London pub. The incident, which has shocked the local community and music enthusiasts, involves an antique instrument crafted in Florence in 1740.
Details of the Alleged Theft
Ahmed Sami Madour, 46, is accused of taking the precious violin from the side of violinist David Ibanez as he dined with a friend at the Marquess Tavern in Canonbury Street, Islington. The violin had been loaned to Mr Ibanez for his performances with London's prestigious Philharmonia Orchestra, making the theft particularly devastating for the musician.
The Metropolitan Police reported that the theft occurred on February 18, 2025, and was reported to authorities the following day. Madour, who is from the Leytonstone area of east London but currently of no fixed address, faces two counts of theft. In addition to the violin, he is accused of stealing a £4,000 guitar on the same day in Hackney.
Legal Proceedings and Police Investigation
Madour was charged on January 19, 2026, and appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court last week, where his trial was scheduled for May 10, 2027. Court records indicate that he has entered not guilty pleas to both charges and has been released on unconditional bail until the trial date.
Police Constable Michael Collins from the Met's local policing team in Camden emphasized the significance of the stolen item during the initial investigation. "The victim, who is a member of London's Philharmonia Orchestra, has told us the piece is worth more than £150,000 and was made in Florence in 1740," he stated. "It is incredibly precious, and for the victim, it's priceless."
Broader Implications and Community Impact
The theft highlights concerns about the security of valuable cultural artifacts in public spaces. The Marquess Tavern, a well-known establishment in Canonbury, has become the unexpected scene of this high-value crime, raising questions about how such precious items are protected in everyday settings.
Madour was arrested on June 25, 2025, on suspicion of theft and taken into police custody before being released on bail pending further inquiries. The case continues to develop as both the prosecution and defense prepare for the 2027 trial, which promises to draw significant attention from both legal and musical circles.
