This sort of treatment is totally over the top.
Like Dave Bryant I too used to busk the underground and if you didn't take liberties it was live and let live.
On one occasion I was joined by a double bass player on his way somewhere and while we were playing an LT copper came along and asked if he could have a go on the bass. We mucked about for a few minutes and the copper said he would be back in 45 mins could we be gone by then!
I sure hope Brian gets his gear back and continues to entertain.Note on it's way to the Mail.
John