4
Nov
2013
By Calvin at 10:16 GMT, 12 years ago
Thanks to Thames Valley Police for bringing my attention to this news story.
Over 350 uniformed and plain-clothes officers, as well as numerous police staff, took part in a special operation to target theft and pick-pocketing on London's rail network.
British Transport Police’s (BTP) day of action, which was held on Thursday 17 October, and formed part of Operation Magnum, a long-term initiative that aims to reduce theft on the railway.
Police staff were also on hand to give out crime prevention leaflets and to help over 600 passengers register their phones and gadgets to immobilise.com, a website that helps police reunite people with their lost or stolen items.
Officers and staff were also encouraging passengers to watch 13 video clips (see below) that show the common tactics that thieves use, so that they can protect their valuables.
The good news is that between Monday, 1 April and Sunday, 20 October, theft on the capital’s rail and Tube network has reduced by 8%, with 577 fewer victims compared to the same period last year.
Chief Superintendent Paul Brogden, who is leading Operation Magnum, said: “We are committed to reducing theft on the railway network and have used a range of tactics to create a really difficult environment for criminals to operate within, including intelligence-led patrols by uniformed officers and plain-clothes theft squad detectives.
“I hope the arrests send a clear message to thieves that stealing from passengers will not be tolerated.”
BTP operate a great mini website called ‘Beware’ where you can watch a series of short videos that demonstrate the tactics used by thieves on our rail network – worth a visit.
BTP Bware mini site: http://www.btp.police.uk/theft/#sthash.n1uVSU5H.Ix80kPWp.dpbs
