National Week of Action to tackle Personal Robbery launched

Last year the operation saw 385 arrests made by forces, with 427 schools and 126 local community events talking about the dangers of personal robbery taking place.

Throughout the week of action forces will be looking to target habitual offenders and take them off the street, and the transport system. There will be focus on the different strands of education, engagement, prevention and enforcement, all of which are important in playing our part to reduce personal robbery.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Personal Robbery, Commander Richard Smith, said:

“Reducing robbery is a key element in tackling violence. Police officers across the country are working day and night to protect communities and our message to those who think it is ok to commit a robbery and inflict violence in our communities is clear: we will not tolerate this. You will end up facing significant consequences and we will catch you.

“Personal robbery has a devastating impact on victims, leaving them with trauma which can be lasting. We know criminals look for easy opportunities, often targeting some of the most vulnerable in society, such as children, with the threats that violence may be used, making robbery particularly traumatic. We continue to see this impact and it is why tackling personal robbery remains a national policing priority.

“We will target our activity in known hotspot areas, increasing our visibility and operational activity and arresting those intent on committing crime. Targeting those habitual criminals, who can be responsible for a large amount of offending, and using screening technology to detect weapons which we know are often used during robberies. Those that are found to be carrying a knife or any other weapon, can expect to be arrested and prosecuted.

“However, we know that we cannot arrest our way out of this problem. There is a need to deliver a multi-faceted response which is why this week of action sees engagement with charities, schools and many other partners.

“It is through engagement and working with partners that we can deliver long-lasting change and ensure young people can see the effects robbery can have.

“Throughout the week, we will see both an increase in operational policing activity as well as preventative work with schools and clubs, to deliver educational workshops to show young people the impact of robbery and how it effects the future of both the victim and offender.

“This operational activity is in addition to ongoing collaborative work that the NPCC and individual forces are undertaking to design out theft of devices and make robberies less attractive to would be offenders.

“Finally, there are several tips you can do to reduce the chances of you becoming a victim, included below. I encourage everyone to follow these and share them with family and friends. If in the unfortunate circumstances you are a victim of robbery, report it to the police.”

Personal Robbery Safety Tips

• Anyone can become a victim of robbery, make sure you do all you can to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
• You are less likely to be targeted if you look confident. Move with purpose and try to be aware of your surroundings.
• Plan your route and think about what to take with you, especially if you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets, walkways and paths which are more likely to be covered by CCTV. Only take licensed taxis or minicabs booked by phone or a mobile phone app.
• Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so look around you.
• And never leave a mobile, any other device, wallet or purse on the table of an outdoor café, pub or restaurant. Same goes for any jewellery you might be wearing – keep it covered when walking down the street.
• Finally – and this is so important to remember – if you’re threatened with violence, don’t risk your personal safety. Property can be replaced, you can’t.
• It’s a good idea to scan the area around ATMs before you use them. Be aware of anyone standing close by and always check the machine to see if it’s been tampered with before you use it.
• Things to look out for are devices attached to the machine – some are more obvious than others. If you do see something suspicious contact the police and the bank.
• Remember, if it doesn’t look or feel right then steer clear and, if possible, go inside the bank where it will be safer. And always keep a regular check on your transactions.
• We know it’s not always easy, but try to be aware of anyone near you when you’re at an ATM. Being aware of your surroundings and not being distracted makes it harder for people to take advantage and less likely that they’ll try to.
• Thieves will watch as you key in your PIN or distract you while you’re withdrawing cash. Be vigilant. Cover your PIN and keep an eye on your card at all times. If someone taps you on the shoulder or tries to speak to you, just ignore them.
• When you've left the ATM, put your card away immediately.
• You should also be careful with contactless cards. You can get a card holder to prevent your card details being inadvertently read.