Hillingdon crime update - stay alert

Why is this message relevant to me?

Distraction thieves are currently active across our Borough - in recent successful attempts they have engaged with their intended victim by pulling up in a car and asking for directions, either by luring the person to the car window to speak to them or by getting out of their vehicle and approaching their victim on the pavement.
 

How does the distraction work?

They say that they are gifting you some items as a thank-you for the directions, by saying that it's their birthday, that they have just moved to the area, or other words of distraction.  During this conversation they may hug their victim to get close and then place a cheap fake gold chain around the victim's neck whilst removing the victim's real gold necklace.  This has happened for necklaces, bracelets and rings in recent weeks on our borough.  Anyone wearing visible gold jewellery can be targeted by these opportunist thieves. 

How can you help the police?

Be aware of the above scenario - do not engage, and move away before the criminal can invade your personal space.  Try and remember as much as possible about the vehicle and the people without putting yourself in danger.  Most importantly, always report it to the police even if it is a failed attempt - detectives actively investigating these crimes need as much information as possible to help them to identify and apprehend suspects and your information may form a vital part of the jigsaw.  There are many ways of reporting crime, listed on our home page at www.hillingdonnhw.co.uk

If this has happened to you then please don't feel too embarrassed or ashamed to contact the police - being fooled doesn't make you a fool, it makes you a victim.

Once you have told the police, you can also contact the Hillingdon Neighbourhood Watch team at hillingdonnhw@gmail.com or by using the form on our website https://www.hillingdonnhw.co.uk/contact

Crime prevention advice

In these summer months this type of crime is much more attractive to criminals, as jewellery is far less likely to be obscured by clothing, so think about what an opportunist thief driving around might be able to spot of value that you are wearing.  If you have elderly family or neighbours please make sure that they are also made aware of the above scenario.

Social media

If you're posting this on your social media channel then a big thank you!  Please also remember to encourage your readers to join Hillingdon Neighbourhood Watch themselves to receive messages directly to their inbox from us and from their local police team - Hillingdon has the highest Neighbourhood Watch membership of all of the 32 London boroughs.  Full instructions on how to join can be found at: www.hillingdonnhw.co.uk