Two Namibian asylum seekers, Frans Epentrius (29) and Tobias Iileka (33), have been sentenced for shoplifting designer handbags in an attempt to fund basic necessities such as food and clothing. Both men are currently awaiting the outcome of their asylum claims with the UK Home Office.
The incident occurred on December 23 at the John Lewis store in Bluewater shopping centre, Greenhithe. According to eyewitness accounts, the pair entered the store with Iileka carrying a pair of wire cutters. Epentrius was seen selecting a small black Coach handbag valued at £550 and placing it in a brown paper bag. When spotted by store staff, he attempted to hide the handbag on another display.
Store staff recognized the duo’s suspicious behavior and called the police. However, the men fled the scene but were later apprehended and taken to North Kent police station. A subsequent review of CCTV footage confirmed their involvement, and the wire cutters were found in Iileka’s possession. It was also revealed that Iileka had previously stolen items worth £1,356 from the same store on December 4.
The pair appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court on January 14, where they admitted to the offences. Prosecutor Lauren Kenny outlined the details of the crime, emphasizing their use of tools to facilitate the theft.
District Judge Nadeem Holland issued sentences aimed at rehabilitation and community service. Epentrius was given a 12-month community order requiring 60 hours of unpaid work. Iileka received a more stringent sentence of an 18-month high-level community order, including 180 hours of unpaid work.