A man has been jailed for his role in killing a 94-year-old who died after being robbed in Barking.

Alexandru Muresan, of Stevens Road, Dagenham was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on September 10 to seven years and four months' imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to manslaughter. 

It follows an incident in Barking town centre on November 8, 2022 where the 94-year-old victim was approached by suspects who stole his wallet whilst he was hugged as part of a distraction robbery.

Police said the man's bank cards were later used in the area.

His 94-year-old victim had lived in Barking for 30 yearsMuresan's 94-year-old victim had lived in Barking for more than 30 years (Image: Metropolitan Police) He was taken to hospital after the incident but died just 36 hours later. 

Muresan was identified using CCTV as part of an investigation by the Met Police's East Area burglary and robbery team. 

Officers arrested Muresan in North Yorkshire on November 18, 2022 and he was later charged with robbery and fraud. 

Evidence collected later on in the investigation saw a manslaughter charge brought against him which he issued a guilty plea to.

Det Sgt Sarah Osborne, of the Met’s East Area Command, said: “Muresan targeted the victim because he was elderly and vulnerable – a decision that ended his life and placed Muresan behind bars.

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“The victim had lived in Barking for more than 30 years.

"His family is understandably devastated by the loss of a man they describe as warm and friendly to everyone.”

Police enquiries continue in a bid to identify Muresan's associates. 

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or contact @MetCC on X, quoting reference 5954/8Nov22.