Pickpocket targeted mums with pushchairs and the elderly in three-month spree

A ‘prolific’ pickpocket who targeted mothers and the elderly in more than a dozen offences has been jailed.

Fazi Zemmour, 36, repeatedly travelled more than 100 miles from London to Birmingham city centre to target victims over the course of three months last summer.

One of his victims was distracted helping an elderly relative when he struck, while several of the others were mums looking after children in pushchairs.

Described in court as a ‘smooth’ and ‘skilful’ thief, Zemmour also used an accomplice to distract his targets by standing near them.

It’s believed he stole £5,000 worth of mobile phones, many of which he swiped from people while they were shopping in Birmingham’s Bullring shopping centre.

He was arrested in December as part of a ‘proactive’ anti-pickpocketing operation by West Midlands Police.

The 36-year-old, of no fixed address, admitted eight thefts, three attempted thefts and one count of fraud by false representation.

Appearing at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court this week, he was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

PC Amy O’Connor of West Midlands Police said: ‘Pickpocketing is not a petty crime as some believe. It can have a lasting impact on the victims.

‘I’d encourage everyone to be on the lookout for the tricks and tactics that pickpockets use so they can help protect themselves and keep their property safe.’

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