On July 12, 2025, four members of an organized crime network were sentenced to a combined 17 years and one month in prison for stealing over £1 million in jewellery from London’s Indian and South Asian communities. The Metropolitan Police’s year-long, intelligence-led operation culminated in the convictions of Jerry O’Donnell (33), Barney Maloney (23), Quey Adger (23), and Patrick Ward (43) at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

The gang primarily targeted South Asian homes across south London, including Croydon, Sutton, and Wandsworth, as well as Surrey, Sussex, and Essex, between December 2023 and July 2024. In July 2024, O’Donnell, Maloney, and Adger were caught red-handed with stolen items, including a gold wedding ring, necklaces, and a solid gold hairpin, after police identified their vehicle via CCTV and executed a forced stop. Ward, linked through intelligence, was arrested at his home and received a two-year-and-five-month sentence, while the others got over five years each.

Detective Sergeant Lee Davison, who led the investigation, called the operation a significant blow to organized crime, emphasizing the “priceless” sentimental value of the stolen items. A raid on a Hatton Garden jewellery shop uncovered £50,000 in cash and eight kilos of jewellery, including a World War One officer’s Rolex and a gold locket with photos. While many items were returned after a March media appeal, police are still seeking owners of remaining pieces and urge victims to contact them at 101, quoting 01/1113701/24.

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This case highlights the Met’s commitment to tackling targeted burglaries, restoring stolen heirlooms, and delivering justice for affected communities.

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