A mugger got more than he bargained for when he stole a woman's mobile outside Wimbledon police station.

He made the mistake of doing it on the doorstep of Wimbledon Police Station during the lunch hour last Wednesday, September 17, just as the borough commander was leaving to go to a meeting.

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Although he was in his suit, Detective Chief Superintendent Darren Williams (pictured) immediately wrestled the 17-year-old to the ground.

Dozens of office workers streamed outside to watch and clap as two other police officers rushed to help.

Detective Chief Supt Williams said: "I couldn't believe it, as I left the back gate a man came running towards me and I heard a female voice shouting stop thief, he's got my phone.

"My first thought was, oh no I have got my best suit on."

The stolen phone was recovered and the 17-year-old was arrested on suspicion of robbery.


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