I was watching BBC Breakfast News this morning, and they ran a report on the increase in "Drive-By" crime committed by gangs of youths on mopeds in London. They target individuals walking along, engrossed in their mobile phones, completely oblivious to who, or what, is going on around them! Some of these gangs are taking things a step further by entering internet cafes in order to swipe laptops or tablets from unsuspecting victims, before making-off by bike!
As the "expert" said, this is an easy crime to commit. People are completely unaware of their surroundings, making them perfect targets to be attacked. Whilst, reduction in numbers of police units, and a visible presence on the streets might be blamed by some, it is a random crime that is difficult to tackle. However, it highlights a major problem within society - namely the carrying and use of phones, computers (and the like) in public. People nowadays have no awareness of their surroundings. They bumble around, heads staring into their screens, headphones blocking-out external noise, completely unaware of the thief approaching from behind, or watching them from the comfort of their bike. An EASY target...!
It might sound like the victim is getting the blame for the crime having been committed, but not really, although their actions make it so much easier. Instead of looking for excuses, someone to blame, a scapegoat, surely it would be easier for the public to take some responsibility for their own actions. Look up when you're walking the streets. Put that phone away - you won't die if you miss a text, or a message on Facebook..! Look after your own devices.
I remember when I worked as a police officer, we had lots of reports of "stolen" mobile phones, especially over a weekend. It wasn't that crime increased at this time, it was more a case of people going out to the pubs and clubs, getting drunk, and leaving, or losing their phones. Of course, phone companies or insurance companies would not pay-out unless the police issued a crime number, so they'd report it as a theft, even though it was clearly their own negligence!
Same thing here, put the phone away, and you are no longer a likely target for a moped gang...
This type of crime seems to be limited to the London area, but street awareness applies everywhere. Locally, we have had a spate of thefts of motor vehicles recently. Due to the icy conditions, people have been leaving their cars running to de-ice, often unattended. A youth on a bike cycles by, has a look, then phones his mate further up the road. Youth one causes a distraction while number two jumps in the driver's seat and nicks the car! Be aware of who is nearby, who is watching you, or anything that looks suspicious. By doing so, you are helping the police by policing your own community. It goes back to the days of "Community Watch," looking out for yourself and your neighbours...
In my new book: "Single-Crewed: My Life as a Police Officer" I touch on these subjects (amongst others). Street awareness is a skill that I developed over my years in the force, and it is something that I still use nowadays. I am aware of who is nearby, who is not resident on my street, anything that looks dodgy. It is a skill that everyone should possess.
For this, and other gems of advice, be sure to read my book. It is due for release in, or before May 2018.
Watch this space for further details nearer the time.....
To read the full report of "Ride-By Thefts" by moped gangs, click HERE.
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