Crackdown as robberies rise
Reporter: RICHARD HOOTON
Date published: 09 May 2011
Youngsters targeted by thugs after phones
POLICE are cracking down on robberies in Oldham town centre after a sudden rise in incidents.
Oldham Police say there has been a spike in robberies over the past five weeks, particularly affecting 12 to 17-year-olds having mobile phones stolen.
Officers are taking action to tackle the problem and have issued advice to victims as well as a warning to the robbers on the seriousness of such offences.
They have already detected more than 40 per cent of the crimes.
People are advised not to use their mobile phone while walking in the street, particularly expensive models, as it advertises it to thieves.
And anyone who falls victim is advised to report it immediately, rather than wait until they are home to report it, as officers can search for the offenders on CCTV straight away.
Victims can also approach PCSOs patrolling the town centre or alert them to any offences.
Police chiefs believe that many of the thieves don’t realise the seriousness of their crime and think that snatching a mobile phone is a simple theft.
However, Supt Catherine Hankinson said: “It’s a robbery to take someone’s mobile phone off them and use force or threaten force to do it. If you get charged it’s a serious offence.
“Quite a few people charged have been remanded in custody while awaiting trial. A robbery is serious and can carry a prison sentence.
“We are using different tactics at the moment to tackle the problem.”
Officers are targeting shops that are unblocking locked mobile phones that have been stolen and are looking to disrupt known offenders.
Shoppers are also advised to make sure handbags are kept closed and worn across their body.
If they are put down when in a coffee shop or restaurant a device known as a “Chelsea Clip” can be used to attach them to the table to prevent it being snatched.
Anyone with any information is asked to call 0161 8568903 or e-mail: oldhamtowncentre.npt@gmp.police.uk. To report a crime call 0161 8725050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
