Keeping you and your possessions safe over the festive period

Across the London Bridge area we have unfortunately seen an upward trend in theft (mobile phones, laptops, wallets and handbags), particularly when members of the public are out socialising and having a drink in the evening. London Bridge is a safe place to be, but 85% of our crime is theft-related and we need your help to bring that figure down.

Often these crimes are committed by skilled, organised groups that move from venue to venue and as such is a trend were seeing across London, not just here. We’ve also noticed an increase in ‘snatch thefts’ and robberies typically performed by young males on pushbikes who target people in the street, taking mobile phones and bags. 

Not only is it an inconvenience to lose items such as bank cards and driving licenses but they can also be used to commit fraud – if you have had those items stolen it’s a good idea to notify Experian (the credit checking agency) who can alert you to any loan applications made in your name. In the case of house keys being taken they can of course be used to access your home, maybe before you’ve even realised they’ve gone.

Prevention is always better than cure though, so below are some actions you can take to prevent yourself becoming a victim, and they apply wherever you are:

• Consider what you need to take out with you. If you’re going for a few local drinks after work, could you leave your bag/laptop in the office and instead pick it up on the way home?

• Always use Chelsea clips (bag hooks) if provided under tables, or if not then look at other ways of securing your property such as looping a bag handle through a chair leg.

• Do not hang items on the backs of chairs – this includes jackets & coats with valuables in the pockets.

• Don’t leave belongings unattended, even for a brief moment.

• Be vigilant for suspicious behaviour such as:

• Intrusions into your personal space.

• People ‘talking’ on their mobile phones (a tactic to prevent being approached and is unnatural behaviour in a loud, busy environment).

• Individuals sitting at a table for a very brief period time before moving off without ordering (they may be acting as spotters for accomplices)

• Be aware of your surroundings when using your phone in public:

• Look up and check who’s around you when taking your phone out.

• Can that text message, email or phone call wait until you’re somewhere more private?

• If you have to use your phone, stand back away from the roadside close to the building line so nobody can come up behind you.

• Use hands-free with the phone in your pocket when making calls.

 
If you have witnessed or been victim to a theft or robbery (whether successful or attempted) and have a description of the suspect, call 999 immediately so the police can be notified as there’s a chance police officers in the area may come across the suspect. For non-emergencies call 101 or report the crime online at www.met.police.uk.

If you’ve been a victim, visit www.victimsupport.org.uk for practical advice and emotional support.