Police have launched a manhunt for a watch thief after a pensioner reported being sexually assaulted and robbed of his Rolex in broad daylight on a busy east London road. The incident occurred on Richmond Road in Hackney at approximately 12.45pm on Monday, according to Thames Valley Police.
Details of the Disturbing Incident
The victim, a man in his 70s, was approached by a woman who initially offered cleaning and gardening services. She then proceeded to offer sexual services and touched him inappropriately over his clothing before allegedly stealing the Rolex watch from his wrist and fleeing the scene.
Suspect Description and Police Appeal
The suspect is described as a white woman in her twenties or thirties with long dark hair, approximately 5ft tall, wearing a black baseball cap and light-coloured clothing. Police have noted she may have a Spanish accent.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Mandy Cutler stated: 'This incident has occurred in the early afternoon, and I am appealing to anybody who witnessed this to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police.'
Witnesses can report information online or by calling 101, quoting reference 43260169849. A dedicated digital portal is available for uploading relevant evidence such as dash-cam footage, doorbell camera images, or CCTV recordings. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
London's Growing Theft Epidemic
This alarming incident occurs against a backdrop of escalating street thefts across London. Millions of pounds worth of items were stolen in 2025, with thieves specifically targeting high-value possessions like phones, watches, and jewellery.
Contrary to assumptions, these crimes are not confined to London's most deprived areas. Criminals are increasingly targeting affluent neighbourhoods such as Mayfair and Westminster in search of expensive goods.
Staggering Statistics and High-Profile Victims
Data collected in December revealed that 3,207 items valued at over £1,000 each were snatched last year alone. The total estimated value of stolen items exceeds £5 million, with some watches valued as high as £30,000.
Westminster has emerged as the primary hotspot for theft, with 363 handbags, 309 watches, and 104 jewellery items stolen between January 2024 and August 2025.
Several high-profile individuals have fallen victim to London's mugging wave, including Bridgerton actress Genevieve Chenneour, Loose Women presenter Christine Lampard, and Brittny Button, wife of Formula One champion Jenson Button.
International Dimension to Crime Wave
The surge in thefts is partly fuelled by international criminal networks. Gangs of prolific thieves from countries including Algeria and Bulgaria are entering the UK specifically to steal thousands of pounds worth of belongings from unsuspecting members of the public.
This troubling pattern highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to combat the growing threat of organised theft in the capital.
