Theft of £150,000 Violin from North London Pub

Ahmed Sami Madour, a 46-year-old man from Leytonstone, east London, has been charged with theft following the alleged theft of a rare violin valued at £150,000. The incident occurred on February 18, 2025, at the Marquess Tavern in Canonbury Street, where violinist David Ibanez was dining with a friend. The antique violin, crafted in Florence in 1740, had been loaned to Ibanez for his performances with the Philharmonia Orchestra.

Daily MailThe Independent

Madour faces two counts of theft: one for the violin and another for a £4,000 guitar allegedly stolen on the same day in Hackney. He was charged on January 19, 2026, and appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where his trial is scheduled for May 10, 2027. Following his not guilty pleas to both counts, Madour was released on unconditional bail until the trial.

The Independent

The Metropolitan Police reported that the theft was first reported on February 18, 2025. Following the incident, PC Michael Collins from the local policing team in Camden issued an appeal for information regarding the theft. He emphasized the violin's significance, stating, “The victim, who is a member of London’s Philharmonia Orchestra, has told us the piece is worth more than £150,000 and was made in Florence in 1740. It is incredibly precious, and for the victim, it’s priceless.”

Daily Mail

Scotland Yard confirmed the details of the theft and the subsequent arrest of Madour, stating that he was taken into police custody on June 25, 2025, and later released on bail pending further inquiries. The police have actively sought public assistance in identifying the suspect following the theft.

Daily Mail

While the details surrounding the case have been reported, there has been no significant public dissent or opposition regarding the charges against Madour. The focus remains on the legal proceedings and the implications of the theft of such a valuable instrument.

The Independent

• “The theft of a violin, valued at £150,000, was reported to the Met on Tuesday February 18 2025” — Metropolitan Police

The Independent

• “It is incredibly precious, and for the victim, it’s priceless.” — PC Michael Collins, Metropolitan Police

The Independent

The upcoming trial set for May 10, 2027, will determine the outcome of the charges against Ahmed Sami Madour. The case continues to draw attention due to the high value of the stolen instrument and its significance to the victim, David Ibanez, and the Philharmonia Orchestra.

The Independent