Four Nigerians, Other Accomplices Sentenced To 55 Years For London Phone Robbery Spree

Four Nigerian men and six other accomplices have been handed a combined total of 55 years in prison following their conviction by the Kingston Crown Court for their involvement in a violent mobile-phone robbery syndicate that terrorised outlets in London. 

According to the Metropolitan Police statement, the Nigerian offenders, identified as David Akintola, Ayomide Olaribiro, Olabiyi Obasa and David Okewole, played key roles in 13 coordinated breaks-in across the UK between September and November 2024.  Investigators say the gang targeted multiple electronics and telecommunications shops, primarily taking personal devices and other high-value goods estimated at £240,000 in total value. 

Court documents show the sentences handed out as follows:

• James Adodo (St Martins Road, Dartford, Kent): 10 years’ imprisonment.  
• David Akintola (Samuel Street, Woolwich): 6 years, 6 months.  
• Michael Babo (Gilbert Close, Woolwich): 6 years, 10 months.  
• Robert Hills (Mayfield Road, Gravesend, Kent): 5 years, 3 months.  
• Ayomide Olaribiro (Warrior Square, Manor Park): 4 years, 6 months.  
• Olabiyi Obasa (Norfolk Close, Dartford): 3 years, 6 months.  
• David Okewole (Vale Road, Northfleet, Kent): 7 years, 6 months.  
• Nelson Joel (St Martins Road, Dartford, Kent): 3 years, 3 months.  
• Mushtakim Miah (Artillery Place, Woolwich): 8 years, 6 months.  
• Laville Bloise (Goldcrest Close, Thamesmead): 2 years’ imprisonment (suspended for 2 years).  

Detectives outlined how forensic evidence, including DNA, call-data records and vehicle logs, tied the suspects to the robberies. The arrest on 19 November 2024 of four of the men in the act at an EE store in Kilburn marked the beginning of the syndicate’s unraveling. 

The case underscores the cross-border nature of organised property crime and the collaborative efforts of UK law enforcement in disrupting mobile-device theft rings. It also serves as a reminder of the serious legal consequences faced by offenders, including foreign nationals.