The three defendants formed part of a sophisticated and organised criminal network, responsible for thieving and trafficking thousands of mobile telephones to locations outside of UK between September 2024 and September 2025.
Over 5,000 handsets, valued at £5.5 million, were recovered during the course of the police investigation. Information provided by shipping companies demonstrated that over 500 successful shipments had been made before police detection, evidencing that the true value of the enterprise was far higher. The Metropolitan police estimate that the network was responsible for 40% of all mobile telephones stolen in London during the period.
The case involved the seizure of consignments, a significant surveillance operation, examination of call data & mobile telephone downloads and the analysis of DNA & fingermark evidence.
The defendants were today sentenced to a total of 25 years’ imprisonment. Applications for Serious Crime Prevention and Proceeds of Crime Orders will follow.
Karen and Katherine were instructed by Saira Pike, Specialist Prosecutor within the CPS London Complex Casework Unit.
The case has been significantly reported in the press:
Karen Robinson KC
Katherine Lloyd