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Man Charged in $200K Violin Heist
29 Mar
Summary
- A 286-year-old violin worth over $200,000 was stolen.
- The instrument was taken in February 2025 from a London bar.
- A man has been charged with theft of the violin and a guitar.
A priceless 286-year-old violin, crafted in Florence, Italy, in 1740, was reported stolen in February 2025. The instrument, valued at over $200,000, disappeared from the Marquess Tavern in North London while violinist David Lopez Ibanez was dining with a friend. Mr. Ibanez, a member of London's Philharmonia Orchestra, had been loaned the violin for performances. He expressed his distress, stating, "Nothing prepares you for having it snatched away."
Almost a year after the theft, authorities apprehended Ahmed Sami Madour, 46. He has been charged with two counts of theft by the Metropolitan Police. The charges include the alleged theft of the valuable violin and an additional accusation of stealing a guitar valued at over $5,000 in East London on the same date. Madour recently appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court, where he pleaded not guilty to both charges. His trial is scheduled for May 10, 2027.
Madour was released on unconditional bail pending further inquiries. The court records indicate his plea of not guilty. The victim's violin is described as "incredibly precious" and, for him, priceless. The investigation and legal proceedings are ongoing, with the trial set for May 2027.
