Indian-origin illegal immigrant jailed for nearly 5 years in worker assault case

In a shocking case that has gripped the UK, Karandeep Singh, an illegal immigrant from Punjab, India, has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison following his involvement in a violent robbery at a home improvement store in Slough, Berkshire. The case not only revealed his criminal actions but also exposed his deceit in claiming to be a teenager, a strategy aimed at garnering leniency in court.

The illegal immigrant’s actions carried out alongside co-defendant Satwant Singh, left a Wickes employee with a severe head injury. This assault, perpetrated on May 25, 2023, during an attempted theft, has sparked discussions about immigration control, honesty in legal systems, and workplace safety.

The Robbery and Assault by Illegal Immigrant

The violent incident unfolded at a Wickes store on Farnham Road. Singh, along with 34-year-old Satwant Singh, targeted the retailer with the intention of stealing spirit levels. Suspicion arose when staff member Morgan Duffy noticed the duo acting strangely. Satwant initially claimed he would pay for a spirit level but walked out of the store instead.

When Duffy attempted to retrieve the stolen item, illegal immigrant was dragged outside by Satwant. At this point, Karandeep struck Duffy on the head with the stolen spirit level, inflicting a deep, 9cm wound. Judge Sarah Jane Campbell later described the incident, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on Duffy and his colleagues. “Staff now feel unsafe and wary about coming to work,” she remarked during sentencing.

Lies About Age and Identity

Adding to the gravity of the crime, Karandeep Singh lied about his age, initially claiming to be 18 years old. The illegal immigrant’s defense hinged on portraying the assault as an impulsive act of immaturity, but this narrative quickly unraveled. Singh’s claim of having a five-year-old child and multiple alias birthdays on the Police National Computer contradicted his supposed youth.

Judge Campbell observed that one of Singh’s recorded birth years made him five years older, aligning more accurately with his physical appearance. “He looks to me a little older than 19,” the judge noted, dismissing his attempts to deceive the court.

Legal Proceedings and Convictions

Despite being summoned for a trial on October 1, 2024, Karandeep failed to appear. The illegal immigrant was convicted in absentia, with fingerprint evidence ultimately confirming his identity. His absence and subsequent denial of involvement highlighted his repeated efforts to evade justice.

This week, Karandeep Singh was convicted of robbery and grievous bodily harm under section 20. He received a sentence of four years, eight months, and 14 days. His co-defendant, Satwant Singh, was convicted of robbery and sentenced to three years and eight months.

A Path Gone Awry

Karandeep Singh’s journey to the UK was marked by aspirations of a better life. He intended to bring his wife and five-year-old son to join him. Instead, his time in the UK was marred by homelessness and criminal activity. Judge Campbell noted the tragic irony of his situation, saying, “Contrary to his supposed family-driven plans, he ended up homeless for the entire time in the UK.”

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