Algerian Thief Faces Deportation After Violent Mayfair Watch Robbery
A 19-year-old Algerian national, Mohamed Sellaoui, has been sentenced and will be deported from the United Kingdom after serving time for a brazen theft in London's exclusive Mayfair district. Sellaoui, identified by the court as a professional thief, violently stole a luxury Patek Philippe watch valued at £37,000 from a tourist's wrist as he exited a high-end restaurant.
Details of the Targeted Attack
The incident occurred on February 26, 2024, outside Langan's Brasserie. The victim, Jiangfeng Ni, a chemistry professor at Soochow University in China, was leaving the establishment when Sellaoui and an accomplice accosted him. According to trial testimony at Southwark Crown Court, the two men pushed Professor Ni into a corner, with Sellaoui wrenching the watch from his left wrist. The professor described resisting with his right hand as the thieves prevented his escape.
Following the theft, both assailants fled towards Green Park station. Professor Ni recounted that one thief tripped and fell but retained the watch. When the professor attempted to approach, the other thief swung a punch at him, making aggressive noises to facilitate their getaway. "My mind went blank. In my head, I had to ask myself: 'What happened?'" Professor Ni told the court via a Chinese interpreter.
Sentimental Value and Impact on the Victim
Prosecutor Lynn Fanshawe presented a victim impact statement in which Professor Ni emphasized the watch's profound sentimental value, having purchased it years prior. He stated the robbery "changed his feelings towards London," leaving him feeling "very nervous" when anyone is near him. Although physically unhurt, the psychological impact was significant, altering his perception of safety in the city.
Judge's Remarks and Deportation Order
Sentencing Judge Gregory Perrins condemned Sellaoui's actions, noting the crime was plainly planned, either through his own reconnaissance or information from others identifying Professor Ni as a target. The judge highlighted Sellaoui's clear pattern of criminal behaviour, labelling him a professional thief despite his young age. He pointed out that Sellaoui was in the country illegally, had no legitimate ties or work rights, showed no remorse, and posed a high risk of reoffending.
Judge Perrins explicitly warned Sellaoui that deportation would follow his release from jail. This decision underscores the legal consequences for foreign nationals committing serious crimes in the UK.
Criminal History and Trial Outcome
At the time of the watch robbery, Sellaoui was already on bail for a previous offence. He had admitted stealing a backpack containing valuables worth £2,000 from a diner at a West End restaurant on February 2, 2023. The items included laptops, an iPhone, and other accessories.
During the trial for the watch theft, Sellaoui, assisted by an Arabic interpreter, denied the robbery charge. However, after a three-day trial, the jury found him guilty. His admission to the earlier theft and the subsequent conviction reinforced the court's view of his persistent criminal conduct.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about street crime in central London and the judicial system's approach to dealing with repeat offenders who are in the country unlawfully. The deportation order serves as a stern message against such predatory activities targeting tourists and residents alike.
