Finally: Hefty Prison Sentence For Scourge Of Square Mile

A prolific City of London thief, who brandished a knife at a female shop assistant when she tried to stop him stealing expensive perfume, has been locked-up.

Samuel Anouer, 34, entered the Square Mile despite two banning orders, prohibiting him entering the City due to serious previous offending.

Once he pulled the deadly weapon he turned a shoplifting offence into a robbery and is now starting a prison sentence of four years and nine months.

He pleaded guilty to robbery; theft and possession of a bladed weapon.

On Tuesday, February 11 at approximately 6.45pm he entered the store, located in Octagon Arcade, near Liverpool Street railway station.

Anouer brazenly began taking fragrances from the shelves, prompting a smaller female assistant to intervene.

He pulled out the knife and continued helping himself to perfumes before leaving with around £640 worth of stock.

Following CCTV enquiries and a positive identification, officers attended an address the following morning and arrested Anouer.

Detective Constable Emma Martin, of the Criminal Investigations Department at the City of London Police, said: “This would have been a frightening ordeal for the shop staff and to the shoppers who had witnessed Anouer wielding a knife.

“No one should have to fear violence or threatening behaviour while at work or simply going about their daily business.

“We investigate all offences thoroughly and we’re committed to keeping people safe and making sure those responsible for criminal activities are brought to justice.”

Anouer also pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching his Criminal Behaviour Order which banned him from entering the City of London.