Officers from the Metropolitan Police have arrested a man on suspicion of theft after it was alleged that he stole “a large number” of face masks and other clinical products from stores and ambulances at north London ambulance sites.
The male then attempted to sell the items online to take advantage of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Officers acted swiftly to find and detain the male after they were given ‘fast-time’ intelligence concerning the male’s location and activities.
By the time officers found the suspect, he had already sold a quantity of the stolen goods online.
The male, who is aged in his 20s, was arrested on Windmill Road, N18 at 12:08 hours on Wednesday 8th April.
He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Police have said that the male was able to easily access the LAS sites because he was a contractor working with the London Ambulance Service.
During various searches of the male’s property, officers managed to find a large quantity of the vital medical equipment which has now been returned to the LAS.
Detective Inspector Jason Colby, leading the investigation said:
“I am saddened that anyone would take advantage of the NHS for their financial gain at such a critical time.
“These masks are a vital piece of PPE for emergency service personnel and are used to keep both themselves and patients safe.
“We will continue to crack down on anyone attempting to take advantage of our emergency services for personal gain, especially at such an unprecedented time.
“We are grateful to those who are assisting in our investigation.”
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