Clip on a festive bell to beat pickpockets

HILLINGDON Police has urged shoppers to be on the look out for pickpockets in the run up to Christmas.

Officers from Uxbridge Town Centre policing team will continue to run Operation Wixan, which sees enhanced high visibility policing with plain clothed officers patrolling the town centre and targeting pickpockets.

Acting Sergeant James Burgess, said: “The police do see an increase in pick pocketing offences during this time of year due to a large number of shoppers in the lead-up to Christmas.

“I would like to stress that while thefts from bags and coats are unlikely to involve direct threats, realising that you’ve had something stolen can still be distressing, costly and a big inconvenience.

“I am therefore urging everyone to take the few simple measures to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime and familiarise yourself with some of the tactics that they use.”

Since its launch this summer, the team have arrested 23 people for various offences such as pick pocketing, distraction theft, possession of drugs and drug supply.

Thirteen were charged and sent to court while a number remain on bail pending further enquiries.

The team will also be giving out anti-theft purse bells at various locations in Uxbridge.

The bells simply clip onto purses and bags and make a sound if they’re moved.

The dates and times that the bells will be issued can be found by visiting www.met.police. uk/saferneighbourhoods