Armed Gang Bag 31 Years for Bookie Robberies in North London
Three crooks behind a string of armed robberies across North London and Hertfordshire have been locked up for a combined 31 years. The trio targeted bookies with imitation guns, stealing over £2,000 in a brutal crime spree.
Gang Foiled After High-Speed Crime Spree
Anthony Wright, 38, from Harrow, Suleyman Karayilan, 41, of Wembley, and Dean Smith, 22, homeless, were sentenced at Harrow Crown Court on Tuesday, 24 April. Each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and possession of imitation firearms with intent.
- Karayilan: 11 years and 4 months
- Wright: 11 years
- Smith: 9 years
The gang struck eight times between 22 and 28 November 2017, hitting well-known bookmakers including Ladbrokes, Coral, Betfred, and William Hill across Harrow, Finchley, and Bushey Heath.
How They Pulled Off the Raids
Karayilan stormed into the shops armed with a gas-powered BB gun disguised as a real handgun. Smith acted as lookout and held doors open during six of the eight raids, while Wright served as the getaway driver. CCTV footage caught Karayilan in action every time.
The Flying Squad arrested the gang immediately after their final heist at Coral, High Road, Bushey Heath. Officers recovered the imitation firearm and £90 in stolen cash minutes after a robbery.
Police Praise Speedy Justice
“These men were responsible for a series of violent robberies in a short space of time,” said Acting Detective Chief Inspector Scott Hartley. “Thanks to a swift investigation and their arrest with the gun and stolen money, we built an ironclad case. The judge’s lengthy sentences reflect the serious nature of these crimes.”
“Huge thanks to all Flying Squad officers involved for their professionalism and dedication to bringing these armed robberies to a quick conclusion.”
Robberies in Detail
- Coral, Preston Road, Harrow – 22 Nov 2017, 20:10
- Ladbrokes, College Hill Road, Harrow – 22 Nov 2017, 20:30
- Coral, Uxbridge Road, Pinner – 23 Nov 2017, 19:34
- Attempted Ladbrokes, Kenton Park Parade, Harrow – 23 Nov 2017, 20:20
- William Hill, Streatfield Road, Harrow – 23 Nov 2017, 20:26
- Attempted Coral, Ballards Lane, Finchley – 26 Nov 2017, 18:58
- Betfred, Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury – 26 Nov 2017, 19:25
- Coral, High Road, Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire – 28 Nov 2017, 19:30
