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I wanted to provide you an update regarding Personal theft (e.g. pick pocketing, no violence used), which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. 🚨 STOP PERSONAL THEFT 🚨
Protect Yourself • Stay Aware • Stay Safe
❗ What is Personal Theft?
Personal theft includes:
🎒 Pickpocketing (stealing from bags/pockets)
📱 Phone snatching
⚠️ Threats or intimidation to take your belongings
These crimes often happen quickly and unexpectedly.
⚠️ Common Situations
🚇 Crowded buses, trains & stations
🛍️ Busy shopping areas & markets
🚶 Walking while distracted (on phone/headphones)
🌙 Quiet streets or poorly lit areas
👥 Someone getting too close or creating a distraction
🔍 Signs to Watch For
Someone standing very close without reason
Groups working together to distract you
Sudden bumping, pushing, or spills
People watching your belongings closely
✅ How to Protect Yourself
🔒 Keep Valuables Hidden – Use inside pockets or anti-theft bags
👀 Stay Alert – Be aware of people around you
📵 Avoid Distractions – Limit phone use in public
🎒 Secure Your Bag – Zip it and keep it in front of you
💡 Stick to Lit Areas – Especially at night
🚶 Walk Confidently – Avoid isolated places
🚫 If You Are Targeted
⚠️ Do NOT resist if threatened — your safety comes first
📢 Make attention if safe to do so
🏃 Move to a safe, crowded place
🚔 Report immediately to police
📞 Cancel cards and secure accounts quickly
💡 Remember
👉 Your safety is more important than any item
👉 Stay calm and avoid confrontation
👉 Report incidents — it helps prevent crime
📢 Stay Alert. Stay Smart. Stay Safe.
Help protect yourself and others from personal theft.
 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
