Police said it was “plausible” that Reda Zari targeted other gay men and encouraged potential victims to come forward.
A man who preyed on gay men in a series of robberies in London has been jailed, with police urging other potential victims to come forward.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, Reda Zari, 22, often approached victims on the street and engaged in sexual acts before stealing their belongings.
In one of the three robberies, more than £25,000 was stolen from a man.
Zari was sentenced to 11 years and six months in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of theft and false imprisonment.
He also admitted attempting robbery in relation to three different men.
Detectives followed Zari after he stole items from a man he met in Camden.
The victim had Zari’s Instagram handle and showed this to the police officer.
more victims possible
Zari, of Haverstock Road, Camden Town, initially refused to answer any questions after his arrest on May 12, 2022.
Police said the man also lied about his age, claiming he was 17.
Crown prosecutor Nigel Puckett said: “All three of Mr. Zaari’s victims were gay men and it is clear that Mr. Zaari preyed on members of the gay community.”
“It is entirely plausible that Mr. Zari targeted other people who, for whatever reason, did not have the confidence to come forward and report,” he added.
Zari was jailed at Southwark Crown Court on Friday.