Jailed: East Ham man who stole thousands in cash machine distraction thefts

The leader of a gang that stole thousands of pounds in distraction thefts at cash machines across London has been jailed for four years.

Amin Alnoor, of Hameway, East Ham, was handed the prison sentence after admitting conspiracy to steal.

Snaresbrook Crown Court how the 28-year-old coordinated the thefts, which he and a team working with him carried out at Tube stations in central London.

Between June 2017 and January 2018, Alnoor, acting with others, would distract and confuse tourists and passengers who were using the cash machines.

He would watch them enter their pin, then steal their card and withdraw large quantities of cash.

Alnoor was ordered to pay more than £9,000 in compensation to his victims.

Det Con Alison Levi said: “The investigation into Alnoor’s deceiving action was extremely complex and involved a number of victims. I am pleased he has been handed a prison sentence.”