A victim who had their mobile phone stolen in moped mugging while waiting for a bus has called for others to be aware of their surroundings.
The incident took place at around 9pm in Abbey Street last month, and after being told by the police that there was not much they could do, they are warning others.
The victim, who asked not to be named, said: “They took my phone after pushing me and drove off. It happens quite frequently in the area.
“They are targeting people who are by themselves. I called the police when it happened on a Friday and after they called me and said they had closed the case as they didn’t have enough to go on.
“I want other people to be made aware of this as it could happen to anyone. I only got my phone out to see where the bus was and wasn’t waving it around or anything.”
Detective Chief Inspector David Rutter, of Southwark Police, said they are “working hard” to keep the public safe and are making the streets “hostile territory” for criminals on mopeds, motorbikes and bicycles.
“Our officers patrol daily in cars and on motorcycles and our team of detectives conduct investigations and covert operations to tackle these and other crimes,” he said.
“I want to get the message out to members of the public about the importance of remaining vigilant when using your phone in the street. It can be snatched in an instant.
“It is important that the public are aware of their surroundings at all times and protect their personal property.
“I would urge people to consider using a hands-free device to make a call and try to avoid texting or using apps by the roadside, where they are most vulnerable to snatch-theft.
“If the public see any suspicious activity or have any information about who is committing these crimes please call police in an emergency on 999 or 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”