Strictly Come Dancing professional Michelle Tsiakkas has issued a public warning after a recent traumatic experience in central London.
The 29-year-old dancer shared her ordeal on social media, urging fans to remain vigilant, as she described feeling ‘scared and helpless’ following the incident.
‘Now this was a couple of days ago and I’ve just about mentally recovered from that. It was quite traumatising on the day,’ she said on Instagram.
“It wasted my whole day and made me feel awful, scared, helpless and I don’t want the same to happen to you.
In her post, Michelle emphasised the increasing prevalence of phone thefts in the city and urged others to be cautious, especially when walking alone in quiet areas.
Michelle was walking alone when a masked rider on an electric bike allegedly sped past her, swooped in, snatched her phone and then sped off before she could even register what had happened.
In the moment Michelle panicked and fell to the ground – injuring her knee.
The professional dancer described it as a ‘heart sinking’ feeling when she realised what had happened in the whirlwind.
Thankfully, two passersby rushed over to help her up and offer reassurance, while Michelle said their kindness meant the world in that moment.
She took to Instagram to alert fans, and said: ‘Be very careful. Phone theft is happening more and crime in the city is getting worse.’
Fans and friends were quick to comment on the post, with Strictly choregorapher, @tommythefranzen, commenting: ‘Oh no I am so sorry this happened to you, hope you are okay.’
@timregandance said: ‘It seems to be a common occurrence in London these days sadly, sending love and hope you are okay.’
Michelle’s boyfriend, Italian dancer Simone Arena, is set to follow in her footsteps by joining Strictly this autumn.
He is reported to be among the new line of pros, three years after his partner first joined the cast.
