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Algerian Asylum Seeker Jailed for £10,000 Laptop Heist

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Youcef Aliouat, a 32-year-old Algerian asylum seeker, was sentenced to 18 months for stealing nine laptops worth over £10,000 from City pubs in London.
He collaborated with an accomplice to target intoxicated patrons, and the judge said the crimes were premeditated, using distraction techniques.
He was under a suspended sentence and is banned from the Square Mile for five years, and City of London Police pledged to tackle thefts.

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Story summary

Youcef Aliouat, a 32-year-old Algerian asylum seeker, was sentenced to 18 months for stealing nine laptops worth over £10,000 from City pubs in London.
He collaborated with an accomplice to target intoxicated patrons, and the judge said the crimes were premeditated, using distraction techniques.
He was under a suspended sentence and is banned from the Square Mile for five years, and City of London Police pledged to tackle thefts.