Golden loot: Crime gangs to pick football fans’ pockets

The Sunday Post broke the story of how a gang of thieves from Scotland were planning to strike at the World Cup in Italy.

The article published on February 18, 1990, read: “A group of travelling supporters which Scotland could do without is already planning a summer offensive for the World Cup in Italy.

“We can reveal that at least three teams of Scottish pickpockets from the Glasgow area are gearing up to fly from Scotland to Italy in June. They are experienced and won’t be easy to spot. They are expert at merging with crowds, dressing for the occasion and at home in everything from team colours to a dress suit.

“There are three major pickpocketing gangs in Glasgow. The biggest is some 70/80 strong and has three ‘Fagins’ schooling the younger members.

“They operate in traditional style, jostling victims and dipping their pockets. Finally, a word of advice. If you are in a crowd and overhear a conversation referring to ‘black bins’ or ‘side bins’...watch out. Bin is the crooks’ jargon for the pockets they are dipping.”