Robber distracts police as he steals from elderly victim in Bexleyheath

Jay Makwana was handed a six-year prison sentence for robbery

A robber attacked an elderly lady and stole her purse while he was talking to police. 

Jay Makwana, 40, spotted his 81-year-old victim leaving a bank near Market Place, Bexleyheath.

He pushed her to the ground and she hit her head on the pavement during the incident on 9 November.

Makwana then waited with the pensioner as she lay on the floor in a red jumper.

Officers arrived just before 11am and spoke to him before letting him leave. 

But a body-worn camera picked up the moment he stole her purse, and the £200 inside, as he pointed in the opposite direction. 

Footage of Jay Makwana stealing a woman’s purse (Credit: Met police)

Makwana, of Northumberland Park, Erith, pleaded guilty to robbery at Woolwich Crown Court yesterday and was sentenced to six years in prison.

Sergeant Matt Taylor said: “This was a truly shocking assault on a woman who was deliberately targeted because of her age and vulnerability.

“It has had a huge impact on the victim’s life and left her scared to leave home alone.

“I hope the fact that Makwana received a significant custodial sentence will bring her some closure as she continues to come to terms with this terrible ordeal.”

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