Margate thief nabbed for a spree of purse snatches across Kent
Police crack down on serial bag thief
Kent Police launched a probe after a spike in reports of purse thefts across the district. Between January and February 2023, numerous victims reported their belongings stolen while shopping or socialising.
The investigation also uncovered similar thefts dating back to June and July 2022, showing a clear pattern of thieving activity.
Strahil Iliev charged with 10 counts of theft
On Monday, 3 April, officers charged 49-year-old Strahil Iliev from Athelstan Road, Margate. He faces 10 charges, including purse and bag theft from various locations:
- College Walk, Margate – 29 June 2022
- Marine Drive, Margate – 3 July 2022
- College Road, Margate – 8 July 2022
- Westwood Road, Broadstairs – 12 July 2022
- Zion Place, Margate – 13 July 2022
- Ramsgate Road, Margate – 22 July 2022
- Hardres Road, Ramsgate – 25 July 2022
- Sturry Road, Canterbury – 9 February 2023
- Laundry Road, Minster – 11 February 2023
Iliev was also charged with an attempted purse theft on 31 January 2023 in Westwood Road, Broadstairs.
Next stop: Crown Court
Iliev appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 4 April, where he was remanded in custody. His case will be heard next at Canterbury Crown Court, with the date yet to be confirmed.
