Selina Scott Blames Sadiq Khan For London Mugging Ordeal

Selina Scott has directly blamed Mayor Sadiq Khan for her traumatic mugging experience in London’s West End. The veteran broadcaster, 74, was attacked by a gang near Waterstones on Piccadilly in June 2025.

West End Attack Leaves Broadcaster Injured

Selina Scott was surrounded by thieves who struck her on the back of the leg with a metal object. The gang stole her purse containing all her debit cards and cash before walking away towards the Ritz.

The former BBC Breakfast presenter described feeling “humiliated and angry” after the attack. She could not find a single police officer in one of London’s busiest areas to report the crime.

Selina Scott revealed she had to walk miles home without any money after the robbery. She advised people to hide £20 in their shoes or socks for emergencies.

Police Response Disappointing and Inadequate

Selina Scott discovered the West End Central police station had been closed four years earlier. She ran from Piccadilly to Leicester Square searching unsuccessfully for an officer to report the incident.

Officers failed to attend a planned appointment at her home the following day. The Metropolitan Police cited no available police car as the reason for their absence.

Sir Mark Rowley, Met Police Commissioner, later apologised on Nick Ferrari’s LBC show. He acknowledged the force “could have given the broadcaster a better service” following her frightening experience.

Direct Criticism of London Mayor

Selina Scott told The Telegraph she holds Sadiq Khan personally responsible for the attack. “I actually blame the mayor of London more than I blame the police,” she stated firmly.

She argued Khan accepted responsibility for keeping Londoners safe when taking the mayoral role. Selina Scott emphasised that police forces come under the mayor’s direct authority and oversight.

The broadcaster questioned why prominent figures receive security whilst ordinary citizens do not. She highlighted the disparity between protection for royals, politicians, and the general public.

Mayor’s Office Responds to Criticism

Khan’s spokesperson defended the mayor’s record on crime reduction across London. They cited significant decreases in knife injuries, homicides, gun crime, and burglary since 2016.

The mayor’s office announced plans to increase West End police presence by 50%. An additional 90 officers will work in new town centre teams targeting shoplifting and phone robbery.

Selina Scott remains unconvinced by these statistics and future promises. She continues advocating for immediate improvements to public safety measures throughout central London.

Historical BBC Controversies Resurface

Selina Scott previously disclosed uncomfortable experiences during her BBC Breakfast tenure in the 1980s. She alleged feeling forced to kiss Jimmy Savile when he appeared as a guest on the programme.

The presenter described Savile as “repulsive” but explained her bosses viewed him as “TV gold dust.” She felt compelled to engage with him despite his inappropriate behaviour and “smutty innuendos.”

Selina Scott also alleged harassment from co-presenter Frank Bough, who died in 2020. She claimed he made denigrating sexual comments and unwanted physical advances during their professional partnership.

Declining BBC Anniversary Invitation

Selina Scott refused to participate in BBC Breakfast’s 40th anniversary celebrations in 2023. She described appearing would have been “dishonest” given her negative experiences during the show’s early years.

The broadcaster characterised her time on the programme as being “a combatant in a war zone.” She felt women were placed on air primarily for “decoration” rather than journalistic credibility.

Selina Scott explained her decision to speak publicly about past harassment. She wanted young women in media to understand the battles fought by her generation.

Current Media Landscape Reflections

Selina Scott believes contemporary broadcasting offers better protection for female presenters. She successfully negotiated contract clauses preventing unwanted physical contact during later television appearances.

The veteran broadcaster hopes her experiences highlight necessary changes within media organisations. Selina Scott advocates for continued vigilance against workplace harassment and inappropriate behaviour.

She maintains speaking truth about past experiences remains important for future generations. Her testimonies contribute to ongoing conversations about women’s safety in professional environments.

Public Safety Concerns Amplified

Selina Scott’s mugging highlights broader concerns about London street crime and police visibility. Her experience resonates with many residents feeling unsafe in previously secure areas.

The incident occurred despite increased security measures following recent terrorist threats. Selina Scott questions resource allocation between protecting dignitaries and ordinary citizens.

Her criticism extends beyond individual officers to systemic failures in crime prevention. The broadcaster demands fundamental changes to policing strategies and resource deployment across London.

Metropolitan Police Under Scrutiny

Sir Mark Rowley faces ongoing pressure regarding police response times and officer availability. Selina Scott’s case exemplifies broader challenges facing the Metropolitan Police in 2025.

Budget constraints and staffing issues contribute to reduced police visibility in key areas. The force struggles to balance competing demands whilst maintaining public confidence and safety.

Crime statistics show mixed results despite significant investment in policing initiatives. Selina Scott’s experience suggests these improvements have not translated into visible street-level security.

Tourism and Economic Implications

Selina Scott’s high-profile mugging raises concerns about London’s reputation as a safe tourist destination. The West End attracts millions of visitors annually contributing billions to the economy.

Business leaders worry about potential impacts on retail trade and hospitality sectors. Criminal activity in prime shopping districts threatens consumer confidence and spending patterns.

The incident underscores challenges facing major cities balancing openness with security. Selina Scott’s experience may influence visitors’ perceptions about London’s safety and accessibility.

Future Safety Recommendations

Selina Scott advocates for immediate increases in visible police patrols throughout central London. She demands restoration of neighbourhood police stations providing accessible crime reporting facilities.

The broadcaster suggests implementing emergency cash systems for crime victims. Her practical advice about hiding money reflects harsh realities of urban crime and inadequate support systems.

Selina Scott continues pressing for accountability from both police leadership and political authorities. Her platform amplifies concerns shared by many Londoners about declining public safety standards in 2025.

Selina Scott’s outspoken criticism of London’s safety failures reflects broader anxieties about urban crime and police effectiveness. Her experience highlights systemic challenges requiring urgent attention from authorities responsible for protecting citizens and visitors alike.