A prolific bag thief has been sentenced to 36 weeks in prison and banned from entering the Square Mile for five years.

Yasser Dennoune, of Thornton Heath, was found guilty of four counts of theft from unsuspecting patrons of licenced premises in the City of London, by stealing their bags and removing valuable items.

The 25-year-old was also convicted of fraud after making purchases on a stolen bank card.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court handed Dennoune a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), banning him from entering the City of London for five years.

If he breaches his CBO, he could face further jail time.

Detective Sergeant Helen Bentley, City of London Police, said: “A banning order helps us to protect businesses and communities from various offences including theft and anti-social behaviour.

“We take such offences very seriously and this is a warning that we will bring those committing crimes in the city to justice.”

“We hope that this sentence gives reassurance to businesses, retail staff and people who visit the city, as well as act as a deterrent to others thinking of criminal activity.”