Mobile Phone Thefts – Community Update & Safety Advice

We want to make the community aware of an increase in mobile phone thefts, particularly involving suspects on electric bikes. These incidents often involve thieves riding past unsuspecting victims and snatching phones from their hands — often while people are distracted, using navigation apps or on calls.

This type of crime is distressing for victims and can also happen in a matter of seconds. Offenders rely on speed, surprise, and distraction — but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk.

👇 Here’s how you can help protect yourself:

🔒 Be aware of your surroundings – When using your phone in public, especially near roads or busy walkways, stay alert and avoid being too absorbed in your screen.

🚲 Watch out for bikes or e-scooters approaching closely – Especially from behind. Thieves often operate in pairs or small groups and may circle the area first.

📱 Keep your phone secure – Consider using it with a wrist strap or keeping it out of sight when not in use.

🛑 Avoid standing near the kerb while on your phone – Try to step away from the roadside or use your phone in a safe, enclosed space.

🔐 Enable tracking and secure locking features – Make sure ‘Find My iPhone’ (Apple) or ‘Find My Device’ (Android) is active. This can assist police in recovering your device if stolen.

📞 Report suspicious behaviour – If you see someone riding erratically or loitering near pedestrians while on a bike, let us know.

Your safety is our priority. We are actively investigating these thefts and carrying out targeted patrols in affected areas.

If you’ve been a victim or have information that may help such as knowing people in the area using these bikes and suspect they may be using it to commit crime , please report it via 101, online, or 999 in an emergency.

Thank you for staying alert and helping to keep our community safe.