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Metropolitan Police are appealing for the public’s help to identify a suspect involved in the theft of a rare 18th-century violin worth over £150,000, stolen from a pub in Islington.
The instrument, described as “priceless” by its owner, was taken from The Marquess Tavern on Canonbury Street during the evening of Tuesday, 18 February. The 30-year-old victim, a member of the London Philharmonia Orchestra, had placed the violin down briefly when it was allegedly taken.
Historic Violin Stolen from Pub
The violin is said to be a 1740 Florence-made instrument, held in high regard not only for its monetary value but also its historic craftsmanship and performance quality.
PC Michael Collins, from the Met’s Camden and Islington local policing team, said:
“We’ve been working hard to try and locate the suspect and are releasing CCTV in an effort to help identify them as soon as possible.
The victim has told us the violin is worth more than £150,000 and is incredibly precious — for them, it’s priceless.”
Police have not yet recovered the violin, and officers are concerned it may have already entered the black market for high-value musical instruments.
CCTV Image Released
Detectives have released a CCTV image of the suspect taken from inside the pub shortly before the theft. Officers are hoping someone may recognise the individual or have information that can lead to the violin’s recovery.
How to Help
Anyone who recognises the person in the CCTV or has information about the theft or the violin’s whereabouts is urged to contact the police:
- Call 101 quoting reference 01/7178074/25
- Tweet @MetCC
- Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org
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