Armed Robber Sonni Reid Nabbed and Jailed for 12 Years
Mohammed Basheeru, also known as Sonni Reid, has been slammed with a 12-year prison sentence for his role in a brazen armed bank robbery in Sydenham.
Masked Gunmen Strike at Sydenham Bank
On February 14, 2024, two masked men stormed a busy high street bank in Sydenham. Waving a gun, they threatened the cashier and forced access to the till, making off with a haul of cash. The robbers sped away down Venner Road, leaving chaos in their wake.
Police Crack Case Using CCTV and Forensics
Met Police’s Flying Squad quickly tracked the gang using CCTV footage showing the suspects escaping in a car. Further investigation revealed the getaway vehicle had picked up Basheeru from his home before heading to the bank.
Inside the bank, officers identified Basheeru by a distinctive deformity on his left ear, aided by his criminal record. He pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court on April 9, 2024, sealing his fate.
Other Sentences and Police Praise
Another culprit, Dorian Rankine, linked to unrelated robberies, was jailed for 10 years at Inner London Crown Court in January 2023.
Detective Constable Craig Prout praised the community’s support, stating: “Justice has been served for the victims.”
