A man who carried out a robbery and an attempted robbery at gunpoint has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after Metropolitan Police detectives built a strong case with the help of the victims.
Ismail Tajzai, 26, of Moberly Road, SW4, appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, 18 October, where he pleaded guilty to several charges. These included robbery, attempted robbery, two counts of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, making threats to kill, strangulation, and perverting the course of justice.
The court imposed a restraining order, banning Tajzai from any contact with the two victims.
Details of the Offences
The incidents took place on 21 and 22 February after Tajzai arranged appointments with two sex workers. In the first attack, he produced a handgun, tied up the victim, and stole approximately £2,000.
The following day, Tajzai attempted to rob a second woman. He threatened her with the handgun, striking her with it, and then tried to strangle her when she fought back. He eventually fled the scene.
Police Investigation
Detectives from the Westminster Public Protection team launched an investigation, during which they identified Tajzai’s DNA and fingerprints at the scene in Kensington. A thorough search of CCTV footage also provided facial imagery, which helped in identifying him.
When police arrested Tajzai at his home, they recovered the gun and cable ties in a backpack that had been thrown from the balcony.
Police Statements
Detective Constable Stephanie Clarke, of the Westminster Public Protection team, said: “This case demonstrates the support police will offer to all victims of crime to prosecute violent, dangerous men. The defendant sought to exploit vulnerable sex workers and deliberately aimed to commit crimes against a group of people whom he assumed were scared to report crimes to police.
“I had first-hand experience during the investigation of how scared the victims were to report to police, out of fear of repercussions that could be caused to them. I would urge anyone else who has been the victim of similar crime to contact police, and an investigation will be launched with specialist support for the victims.”
Detective Inspector Luke Bacon, also from the Westminster Public Protection team, commended the officers involved, saying: “I would like to commend my officers for their dedication in identifying this particularly dangerous individual and the swift action they took to ensure his arrest and prosecution. This was a time-sensitive investigation, and I firmly believe that if it were not for the actions they took, more attacks would have occurred.
“I would also like to reserve particular praise for the victims involved in this terrifying case. They showed immense bravery in coming forward to report to the police in the first instance, and in doing so they have ensured that this dangerous individual was caught, prosecuted, and convicted.”
The case highlights the police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring justice is served, regardless of the background or circumstances of the victims.
