Look Up Look Out campaign urges residents to beware of phone thieves on mopeds and bikes
Hackney Council and the police are warning residents to be on alert for phone thieves on mopeds and bicycles. Last week, community safety officers joined TfL, the Met Police, and British Transport Police outside Manor House station for the London-wide "Look Up, Look Out" campaign, engaging with the public on how to stay safe when using their phones in public spaces.
Residents are warned to be particularly careful at bus stops, near train stations, outside pubs and clubs, and when wearing headphones.
The next Look Up Look Out events will take place at Hackney Wick station on Friday 9 May and Manor House station on Thursday 29 May from 4.30-6.30pm. Come along to get your phone tagged with a unique QR code and registered to a secure database for free.
I’m urging all our residents to be vigilant when walking with or using their phone on the street. Protect yourself against opportunistic thieves who are on the lookout for an easy target and a phone to snatch. To the perpetrators, I say: think twice before committing such a crime. The penalty when caught is severe. Robbery can lead to life imprisonment.
Cllr Susan Fajana-Thomas OBE, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services
We have seen significant robbery reductions in the area thanks to a series of targeted robbery operations. By working closely with our partners, we are committed to raising awareness and educating our local community about the risk of robbery. These include programs such as the ‘look up look out' campaign. Our aim is to empower the public with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves, whilst increasing police visibility, and deterring criminals. Together, we will reduce crime and create safer neighbourhoods for all.
Inspector Jim Melton, Neighbourhoods Inspector for Hackney North Cluster
To help keep yourself safe from thieves on bikes and mopeds, the Metropolitan Police offers this advice:
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Go hands-free to make a call.
- Be discreet when using your phone out and about, or put it out of sight.
- Try not to text or use apps while walking along, you’ll be less aware of what’s going on around you.
- Be extra careful at bus stops, train stations and at curbsides.
- If you have to use your phone, stand away from the roadside, close to a building or wall.
- Try using your phone in the hand closest to the wall so it’s harder to take out of your hand.
The Council’s 24-hour CCTV team works with the police to deter theft committed by people on bikes and mopeds, resulting in a number of arrests. Council wardens are also offering safety advice to people when out and about.
Get more tips on keeping yourself protected from crime at hackney.gov.uk/crime-and-safety