Hollywood star Tom Cruise is reportedly moving out of his £35 million apartment in Knightsbridge, central London, following a violent robbery at a nearby Rolex store.

A source told the Daily Mail that the aggressive attack on the boutique below highlighted serious security concerns around the multi-million-pound residences where Cruise lived. “He used to enjoy walking around the area, but Knightsbridge seems to be getting less safe by the week. He’s clearly noticed the decline over the past year or two,” the source said.

The American actor is well known for his early-morning runs in Hyde Park, located opposite his building. However, staff at the residential complex were recently seen helping remove Cruise’s personal belongings. “Everything happened very quickly and even the building staff were surprised. It was truly strange,” the source added.

According to reports, Cruise may return to the United States or is considering property options in the Cotswolds, though he has not confirmed any plans. The 63-year-old star has lived in London for many years, treating it as a base for work, friendships, and a relatively private lifestyle.

The incident that raised alarm reportedly occurred at around 11 a.m. on January 20, when a group of motorbike-riding robbers approached the Bucherer Rolex Boutique via parallel routes before converging on the target. Six masked suspects used claw hammers and machetes to smash their way into the store, stealing 20 watches worth hundreds of thousands of pounds before fleeing the scene.

The daytime Rolex robbery came just weeks after the Italian luxury fashion brand Loro Piana was also targeted in the same neighborhood, with clothing and handbags stolen before police arrived.

Last year, a 24-year-old man named Blue Stevens was fatally stabbed near The Park Tower Knightsbridge, just a short distance from the Rolex boutique. Statistics show that in November 2025 alone, a total of 295 crimes were recorded in Knightsbridge and neighboring Belgravia.

Commenting on the situation, branding expert Marcel Knobil said some of London’s most prestigious areas are suffering serious damage to their image. “Knightsbridge has long been associated with glamour, wealth, and prestige, where safety is assumed and expected. Once security is threatened, the area’s image takes a major hit. Glamour and prestige are fragile and can easily be shattered,” he said.

Knightsbridge has traditionally been regarded as one of London’s wealthiest and most expensive neighborhoods, famed for its elite lifestyle, luxury shopping, and proximity to Hyde Park. The presence of global celebrities such as Tom Cruise and Madonna has helped cultivate its glamorous reputation and boost London’s appeal among the international elite.