A Deliveroo rider in London pursued a thief who stole a Brazilian tourist's phone, describing the act as "heartless" and "the lowest of the low crime" in a video posted online. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on November 1 in Borough, central London.
Milo Sterlini, the delivery rider, was on a routine shift when he witnessed the theft. Footage shared on his YouTube channel, London Eats, shows the woman in her 20s running after the thief, shouting for her phone back. Sterlini then pursued the suspect on his motorbike.
During the chase, Sterlini called out to the thief, urging him to drop the phone. The thief responded, "Nah bro I've gotta make money." Sterlini eventually stopped chasing the suspect due to concerns for his own safety, noting that thieves often carry weapons. He then contacted the police and comforted the distressed tourist, who was reportedly in tears and stated she had lost everything.
In his video, Sterlini appealed for the thief to be caught, emphasizing the vulnerability of tourists and the severity of such a crime. "I hope scumbags like that do get the full force of the law thrown at them," he said. "That is scumbag behaviour right there."
Metropolitan Police confirmed they were called to the scene on November 1 following a report of a phone theft. They conducted inquiries, including speaking with witnesses and reviewing video and CCTV footage. However, no suspect was identified, and the case has since been closed. Police urged anyone with information to contact them.
Sterlini highlighted the victim's distress, noting she was due to fly back to Brazil the following day and that the incident might deter her from returning to London. He suggested that those inclined to steal should instead find legitimate work, like food delivery, to earn money.
Viewers on Sterlini's YouTube channel praised his actions, with many commending his bravery in chasing the thief and his sensible decision not to escalate the pursuit. They also acknowledged his efforts to comfort the victim.