Coin Collector’s Home Burgled in Westminster – Thief Still on the Run
Dominik Kuzio, 31, with no fixed address, was found guilty at Southwark Crown Court on Monday, 18 October, for breaking into the Westminster home of famed coin expert Simon Bendall. He was sentenced to four years behind bars.
Priceless Byzantine Coins Stolen During Afternoon Break-In
Simon Bendall, who sadly passed away in June 2019 aged 80, was a world-renowned collector, scholar, and dealer specializing in ancient Byzantine coins. On 12 February 2018, while Bendall was enjoying a pint with friends at a local pub, Kuzio forced his way into his Ashley Mansions flat in SW1V, ransacking the property.
£100,000 Loot Taken – Police Hunting Fugitive Thief
Bendall returned around 5:30 pm to find his precious collection of coins, medals, spoons, watches, and a laptop stolen. The haul was valued at over £100,000. Forensic officers found Kuzio’s DNA at the scene, leading to his arrest and interview. However, Kuzio failed to show up to his bail hearing and vanished.
Detectives suspect Kuzio fled, possibly to Poland, but they haven’t ruled out that he could still be in the UK. They’re urgently appealing for help to trace him and recover the stolen items.
Police Appeal for Leads – Help Find Kuzio and the Priceless Coins
If you have any information about Dominik Kuzio or the missing coin collection, contact the police immediately on 101 or tweet @MetCC referencing CRIS 6507683/18. You can also report anonymously to charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.