A 58-year-old unemployed British man has pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, attempted robbery and possession of a knife following an attack on a Saudi businessman in London’s Mayfair district.
Ivan Stringer attacked Thamer Al Qarawi, a Saudi visitor in his 40s, as he walked through Berkeley Square on the evening of September 3. Police said the incident was linked to an attempted robbery targeting his backpack, which contained a luxury watch. No belongings were ultimately stolen.
Mr Al Qarawi suffered stab wounds that were considered non-life-threatening. He received medical treatment before returning to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Embassy in London had urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid carrying valuable possessions in public places following the incident.
During the court hearing, Stringer’s defence said he had been struggling financially and had reached a low point in his life when he committed the offences. Sentencing will take place at Southwark Crown Court at a later date.
The case has renewed attention on street crime involving valuable watches and other possessions in central London, particularly among visitors to the city.
