Broadcaster Selina Scott Attacked, Robbed by Gang in Central London

Veteran broadcaster Selina Scott was viciously attacked and robbed by a coordinated gang of seven or eight men and women in central London's Piccadilly, near a Waterstones bookstore. She was struck on the back of her right knee, causing her to stumble, while the gang attempted to grab her backpack; although she held onto it, they managed to unzip it and steal her purse containing cash, bank cards, and her driving license. Scott described the assault as a slick, well-rehearsed attack carried out in broad daylight amid a busy crowd, leaving her feeling shattered, traumatised, and furious about the lack of visible police presence in the area. Despite reporting the crime to the Metropolitan Police, she was disappointed by the limited police response and the difficulty in obtaining in-person help. The incident highlights concerns over rising violent crime and theft in London, with Scott warning that if such a brazen attack can happen to her, it could happen to anyone. The Metropolitan Police responded by emphasizing that a significant number of officers patrol the West End daily, including plainclothes officers and vehicles, to identify and apprehend suspects.