Brent Knifepoint Robbers Sentenced to 17 Years
Two dangerous knifepoint robbers from Brent have been locked up for a total of 17 years following a series of terrifying raids on wealthy victims. Darren Buchanan, 27, from Lilburne Walk, NW10, was jailed for nine years, while 26-year-old Cameo Joseph of Cranhurst Road, NW2, received eight years.
Cold-Blooded Watch Snatchers Who Planned Attacks
Detective Constable Tony Holley, who led the crackdown alongside DC Paul Gaffney, condemned the pair’s chilling tactics. “Buchanan and Joseph showed no fear to threaten victims with knives, stalking them for miles before robbing them right outside their homes,” he said.
“In the last robbery, they threatened to stab the victim after pulling out knives. The outcome could have been even more horrific.”
Five Knife Muggings Targeting Expensive Rolex Watches
- 27 December 2018, Berners Street: Buchanan and three others attacked a 43-year-old man outside a hotel, stealing his £50,000 Rolex after punching and kicking him to the ground.
- 9 March 2019, Mayfair: An 18-year-old’s £6,000 Rolex was snatched after Buchanan and crew followed him home from a taxi and demanded the watch at knifepoint.
- 26 April 2019, Regent Street: A 19-year-old was punched and kicked by a gang including Buchanan, losing his £7,000 Rolex.
- 5 August 2019, Cricklewood to Acton: Buchanan and Joseph chased a 19-year-old carrying a watch similar to a Rolex Hulk Submariner, brandished a knife and machete, stole his watch and ripped off a £1,200 gold chain.
- 8 August 2019, Mayfair to St John’s Wood: The duo followed a 44-year-old man with a £12,000 Rolex, pulled him down, threatened him with knives, and forced him to hand over the watch.
Arrest and Evidence Found in Vehicle and Homes
Police finally caught Buchanan and Joseph on 14 August 2019 in Hampstead after they were seen covering their faces and following people near the tube station. A week later, officers stopped their vehicle in the West End and found balaclavas, knives, clothing from the robberies, and stolen Rolex watches.
Searches uncovered more robbery gear and over £5,000 worth of Class A drugs linked to Buchanan at an Isleworth address. Both men were charged with conspiracy to rob in September 2019. Buchanan also pleaded guilty to drug offences.
Justice Served for Victims
DC Holley said the investigation was a “collective effort” and welcomed the hefty sentences. “These men are off the streets where they belong. Victims, who have been traumatised by these violent robberies, now have some closure.”
Judgment from HHJ Grieve highlighted the long-term impact on victims and the carefully planned nature of the crimes. “You targeted people for their expensive watches, often tracking them for miles. Public safety demands sentences that reflect this,” the judge stated.
