By The Nexus Gazette.
19th August, 2024.
In a decision that has sparked public outcry, two asylum seekers who stole a £25,000 gold Rolex in London’s bustling Soho district have been allowed to walk free. The defendants, Yousef Garef, 21, and Amin Abdelkadar, 25, targeted a partygoer in the early hours of July 21, 2023, making off with his prized Rolex Day Date watch. The robbery occurred around 2 a.m. in the heart of London’s West End, an area known for its nightlife and high-end attractions.
The robbery unfolded rapidly as Garef approached the victim and forcibly snatched the gold Rolex from his wrist. Abdelkadar assisted by covering the victim’s mouth, preventing him from shouting for help. The victim, in a desperate plea, cried out, “Don’t take my watch!” but was unable to stop the duo from escaping with the valuable timepiece.
Despite the victim’s distress, the gold Rolex, which holds a significant market value, was never recovered. The loss has left the victim with not only financial damage but also lingering trauma from the violent encounter.
The court’s decision to avoid custodial sentences for both men has led to widespread debate. Garef received a three-year community order, while Abdelkadar was given a two-year community order. Both were also sentenced to 150 hours of unpaid work and 40 hours of rehabilitation activity. In addition to these penalties, the court imposed a curfew restricting their movement between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
A five-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) was also issued, prohibiting the two men from entering the western half of the City of Westminster and from contacting each other.
The court’s leniency has ignited discussions on the justice system’s approach to crimes committed by asylum seekers. Critics argue that the sentences do not reflect the severity of the crime, especially given the value of the stolen Rolex. On the other hand, some voices call for understanding of the complex circumstances faced by asylum seekers in the UK, suggesting that their legal and social challenges must be considered in sentencing.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between ensuring public safety and addressing the legal rights and humanitarian needs of those seeking asylum in the country. The incident in Soho serves as a flashpoint in the broader conversation about crime, punishment, and the challenges of integrating asylum seekers into society.
Resources:
1.https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/two-asylum-seekers-stole-25k-gold-rolex-london-soho-allowed-walk-free/
2.https://headtopics.com/uk/two-asylum-seekers-who-stole-25k-gold-rolex-in-london-s-56049000
3.https://www.gbnews.com/news/asylum-seekers-london-soho-rolex-watch-stolen