An Algerian suitcase snatcher was apprehended by a quick-thinking policeman – after he caught the thief using a bystander’s bicycle.
Video shows Hicham Labidi, from Stepney, lingering near the boot of taxi before grabbing the blue luggage outside St Pancras Station in London on October 19.
He is forced to abandon the operation when the vehicle’s owner catches him in the act – triggering an on-foot police chase in the area.
Officers were called after Labidi’s failed theft was filmed on camera by a member of the public at 11.40am.
Around 50 minutes later a policeman searching the area recognised the 33-year-old walking in Kings Cross.
A long and exhausting chase on foot followed – before a good Samaritan cyclist offered his bike to the officer, saying: ‘I’ll jog behind you, because I do need it.’
The policemen is seen catching up to the thief two minutes later on Cromer Street, before declaring on his radio: ‘Detained.’
Labidi was arrested on suspicion of attempted theft.
Video shows Hicham Labidi, from Stepney, lingering near the boot of taxi before grabbing the blue luggage outside St Pancras Station in London on October 19
A long and exhausting chase on foot followed – before a good Samaritan cyclist offered his bike to the officer, saying: ‘I’ll jog behind you, because I do need it’
The policeman is seen arresting Labidi, placing his hand on his shoulder. He declares on his radio: ‘Detained’
After a search of his home, he was further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and possession of Pregablin, a class C drug – however, these two charges were later discontinued, the Metropolitan Police said.
Labidi, an Algerian national, pleaded guilty to theft at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on November 3, 2025.
He will be sentenced on Wednesday, March 25.
The Met’s inspector, John Wilde, said: ‘We know theft is a real concern for Londoners and those who visit the capital.
‘This case determines the Met’s drive to tackle the issues that matter most to those who live, work in and visit the city.
‘Labidi thought he’d made a quick getaway – but our officers were quicker, thanks to a member of the public who offered up his bike.’
