An interactive map has laid bare London's robbery hotspots, with data showing nearly 100 such crimes occur daily across the capital. Figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal that Westminster alone sees around 10 robberies per day, many involving thieves on mopeds targeting phones and luxury watches.
In the 12 months to June, 33,752 robberies were recorded in London out of 80,297 across England and Wales. While this marks a 4% drop from the previous year in the capital, the City of London Police recorded an 11% rise, from 162 to 180 offences.
Westminster topped the list with 3,612 robberies, followed by Lambeth (1,980), Southwark (1,971), Newham (1,743), Camden (1,639), and Hackney (1,562). At the other end, Kingston upon Thames had the fewest with 201, then Richmond upon Thames (273), Sutton (276), Bexley (317), and Merton (375).
Among the victims was TV personality Selina Scott, 74, who was attacked and robbed near a Waterstones in Piccadilly in June. She criticised London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, saying she blamed him more than the police. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley apologised, admitting the force failed to provide adequate service.
A spokesman for Sir Sadiq highlighted a 13% fall in robbery rates compared to the previous year, attributing it to record investment in policing and the Violence Reduction Unit. He noted that mobile phone crime and shoplifting are key drivers, and that specialist teams in hotspot areas have been boosted by 50%.
In a separate case, illegal migrant Ahmed Djidi, 26, was jailed for 22 months for his role in stealing a £65,000 Patek Philippe watch from Tim Hortons boss Axel Schwan in Mayfair. Djidi acted as a lookout for the gang, which snatched the watch in New Bond Street.
