Their tactics involved one of them offering to help a victim on or off of a bus while an accomplice either blocked the aisle or caused a backlog to prevent other people getting on.
Whilst distracted, one member of the group would pickpocket the victim.
Other distraction methods including placing a scarf over the victim’s handbag and in the majority of thefts, cash, bank cards and mobile phones were taken.
After trawling through CCTV footage between January and August this year, officers discovered that the trio primarily targeted elderly and vulnerable victims - the eldest being 93-years-old.
A Met Police spokesman said as Londoners begin to enjoy the festivities in the build-up to Christmas, these convictions should act as a reminder that pickpockets and thieves will try to prey on people in bustling areas and crowded transport.
“We would encourage people to remain vigilant and keep bags securely closed,” he said.
“Further crime prevention advice is available via our website met.police.uk.”
No comments:
Post a Comment