'Wimbledon prowler' admits trying to burgle home of Boris Becker

Asdrit Kapaj spent years travelling from Greater Manchester to carry out the burglaries in southwest London.

Thursday 16 May 2019 22:29, UK

The 'prowler' was captured on CCTV in a fisherman's hat
Image: The 'prowler' was captured on CCTV in a fisherman's hat
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The "Wimbledon prowler" has admitted trying to raid the home of tennis star Boris Becker.

Asdrit Kapaj, 42, last month pleaded guilty to 21 counts of burglary, two counts of attempted burglary and a further count of going equipped.

In a spree lasting more than a decade, he burgled a series of homes in the southwest London suburb, home to the famous tennis championships.

His haul included a diamond ring, a gold necklace and a gold watch, as well as thousands of pounds in cash.

Asdrit Kapaj wil be sentenced on 21 June
Image: Asdrit Kapaj will be sentenced on 21 June

Earlier this week, he also admitted a charge of attempted burglary on Becker's home in October 2013 and the burglary of another property in January 2014, a court official confirmed.

Becker, who won the Wimbledon singles title three times, said Kapaj "didn't actually get into the house", adding: "I'm pleased he's been caught."

Becker's estranged wife Lilly said: "I'm glad he's been caught. He had no choice but to admit what he'd done."

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The prolific thief dubbed the "Wimbledon Prowler", who has admitted to raiding a string of homes
Image: The prolific thief has admitted raiding a string of homes

Kapaj travelled from his home in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, to carry out raids between July 2008 and his arrest on 22 February this year.

He is said to have meticulously destroyed security equipment and tried to disguise his appearance by wearing a fisherman's hat.

Kapaj is due to be sentenced on 21 June.