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I wanted to provide you an update regarding robbery, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. 🚨 CRIME PREVENTION ALERT – ELDERLY RESIDENTS BEING TARGETED FOR GOLD JEWELLERY 🚨
Please be aware of an increase in robberies and thefts targeting elderly residents wearing visible gold jewellery, particularly around:
📍 South Kenton Station
📍 Northwick Park
📍 Preston Road Station
Current reports indicate suspects are described as Black, White European or White Middle Eastern males in appearance, although investigations remain ongoing and descriptions may vary.
⚠️ Type 1 – Necklace Snatch Robberies
Elderly residents wearing visible gold jewellery, typically gold necklaces, are being followed from transport hubs and buses by males believed to be in their 20s. Victims are then targeted on quieter roads, where suspects approach from behind and snatch necklaces from around their neck before making off.
🔹 On 20/06/2026 at approximately 18:20hrs, an elderly female victim was robbed on Northwick Avenue after leaving the Northwick Park area.
🔹 A further similar incident occurred on the same day in Grasmere Avenue.
📈 Current intelligence suggests this type of offending is most prevalent during weekends.
⚠️ Type 2 – Distraction Thefts
Elderly residents wearing visible gold jewellery are also being targeted through distraction techniques.
🔹 Typically, a female suspect, sometimes accompanied by another woman or a male, approaches the victim asking for directions or claiming they are visiting someone in hospital and need assistance.
🔹 While engaging the victim in conversation, the suspect may take hold of or hug the victim. During this interaction, jewellery such as gold necklaces, bracelets or bangles may be removed without the victim immediately realising.
✅ Crime Prevention Advice
🛡️ Consider concealing valuable jewellery when travelling or walking in public.
🛡️ Remain aware of your surroundings, particularly when leaving stations, bus stops and shopping areas.
🛡️ Be cautious of strangers asking for assistance who invade your personal space.
🛡️ Do not allow unknown persons to hug or physically touch you.
🛡️ If you believe you are being followed, move to a busy area and call for assistance.
🛡️ Check on elderly family members, friends and neighbours and make them aware of these crime trends.
👮 Your local policing teams are aware of these incidents and are working hard to identify those responsible. We are conducting enquiries, reviewing available CCTV opportunities and gathering intelligence to bring offenders to justice and prevent further victims.
📞 Report suspicious activity to 101.
🚔 If a crime is in progress or has just occurred, call 999 immediately.
💙 Please share this message with family, friends and neighbours to help protect vulnerable members of our community. Your vigilance and reporting can make a real difference.
Kind Regards,
Kenton Safer Neighbourhoods Team 🚓
 We will continue to tackle robbery in your local area. While we are investigating and arresting those responsible, please consider following the below advice to keep yourself and your property safe: Do not leave your phone, tablet or other digital goods unattended, out of sight or on a table. Be aware of your surroundings and only use your phone when it is safe to do so. Put your phone away when you have finished using it. Secure your phone by choosing a strong pin or password Keep a note of your IMEU number (to access, type *#06# on your phone keypad) Plan your route, especially if you are going somewhere you have not been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets and walkways. Move with purpose and appear confident.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 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. | 
