A suspected shoplifter linked to a string of high-value thefts from John Lewis stores, including...

Published: 1:28 pm June 6, 2025
Updated: 1:17 pm October 8, 2025
Suspected Bluewater Shoplifter Arrested at Gatwick After Alleged £2,000 Handbag Thefts

A suspected shoplifter linked to a string of high-value thefts from John Lewis stores, including at Bluewater, has been arrested at Gatwick Airport moments after disembarking from a flight.

Arrest at Gatwick Arrivals

Margarita Clementi, 37, of St Johns Avenue, Brent, London, was detained by Kent Police on Tuesday, 4 June 2025, as she approached the arrivals hall at Gatwick.

She was arrested in connection with the theft of designer handbags and other goods worth over £2,000.


Multiple Thefts Linked

The investigation relates to three alleged incidents at John Lewis in Bluewater, on:

And a further incident at John Lewis in Cambridge on:

  • 11 April 2025

During the Cambridge incident, police allege that two more Coach handbags and a pepper mill set were stolen.


Charges and Court Date

Clementi has since been charged with three counts of theft. She has been bailed with conditions and is due to appear at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 7 July 2025.

Kent Police say the swift arrest at Gatwick was the result of ongoing inquiries and intelligence coordination.


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