Jail For Sneaky Bag Thief

A heartless bag thief, who targeted unsuspecting victims for their valuables, is starting a twelve-month prison sentence after being caught by plain clothes police.

Samir Agoun, 32, actively stole bags in City of London pubs and other licensed premises, hoarding the loot at his home in Marquis Road, Haringey.

On October 22 police spotted Agoun acting suspiciously in Brune Street, Whitechapel – paying particular attention to anybody with a bag.

He was later seen nearby in Widegate Street, carrying a backpack, which he tried to discard.

Officers retrieved the bag and when they searched Agoun, they also found a bank card in someone else’s name. 

In a search of his home, six stolen mobile phones, two false identification documents and a stolen passport were found.

As a result, police successfully linked him to a number of thefts of bags from licensed premises across the Square Mile.

Inspector Alexander Wisbey, from the Proactive Crime Team at the City of London Police, said: “This result follows a tireless effort to prove Agoun’s link to a number of crimes.

“His actions had a significant impact on the people who had their possessions and private information stolen. 

“We are pleased that he is no longer able to cause harm to others.

“Our officers are here to protect people from criminals like Agoun. 

“We are working closely with licensed premises across the City, providing training and advice to help prevent opportunistic crimes like bag and phone snatches, but we can’t do this alone. 

“If you see something that doesn’t look right, trust your instincts and let us know by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.”

Agoun was sentenced to 12 months in prison for theft and possession of false documents, after pleading guilty to five charges at the City of Westminster Magistrates Court.