London police charge man with attempted murder over stabbing of Saudi tourist
LONDON: A 58-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder over the stabbing of a Saudi tourist during an alleged luxury-watch robbery in central London.
The Metropolitan Police brought the more serious charge following its investigation into the attack near Berkeley Square in Mayfair.
Police initially arrested the man on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, possessing an offensive weapon and attempted robbery. Reports later described the charge as having been changed from assault with intent to rob to attempted murder.
A magistrates’ court refused the defendant bail and ordered that he remain in custody while the case continues.
The matter has been sent to the Crown Court because attempted murder can only be tried on indictment.
Attempted murder carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in England and Wales, although any punishment would be decided only after a conviction and would depend on the circumstances of the case, according to the Sentencing Council.
The Saudi citizen, who is in his 40s, was attacked with a knife during the night of Thursday into Friday near Berkeley Square.
The alleged robbery targeted his valuables, including an expensive watch.
During the magistrates’ court hearing, it emerged that the victim had removed the watch and concealed it in his bag rather than wearing it while outside.
The defendant allegedly stabbed him but fled without obtaining the watch after finding that it was not on his wrist.
Security guards and members of the public then detained the man and handed him to police, according to details reported from the court hearing.
The victim was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital. Police later said his injuries were not considered life-threatening.
The Saudi Embassy in London is monitoring the case through a legal team and remains in contact with the relevant British authorities.
It has also repeated its advice to Saudi citizens in London to avoid carrying or openly displaying valuable belongings that could make them targets for robbery.
The attempted-murder charge remains an allegation unless proved in court.