Increased patrols at stations today as part of Operation Magnum
Transport officers are warning passengers to be extra vigilant during the busy festive period, with crowded carriages often proving an attractive environment for thieves.
A day of action as part of Operation Magnum – BTP’s nationwide initiative to reduce the theft of passenger property – is being held on Thursday, 18 December.
It comes as new figures show that, since April, property thefts have fallen 14 per cent across the national rail network, with an even greater reduction on the London Underground, where theft of personal items has reduced by 20 per cent.
Despite the fall in property theft, officers urge rail passengers not to be complacent, as the busy Christmas rail rush approaches.
Superintendent Jason Bunyard, British Transport Police’s Sub Divisional Commander for southern England, said: “Despite the significant falls in property thefts, we don’t want rail passengers to become complacent. Christmas is a busy time when many people are shopping for gifts or socialising with friends and we want to make it as difficult as we can for thieves to operate on any part of the rail network.”
In the run-up to Christmas, officers will increase patrols at stations across the country. Some of the patrols will be driven by intelligence, and include plain-clothes detectives and uniformed colleagues.
Officers will also be visiting some superstores and universities, advising members of the public of keeping their luggage safe while on the rail network.
The main aim of the day is to educate members of the public about how they can best look after their property on crowded trains.
Supt Bunyard added: “Always remember to keep your luggage and bags close by and check on them regularly. Keep your valuables hidden and be aware of your surroundings when you board a train or tube. Always zip up any hand or shoulder bags.
“Mobile phones, tablets, kindles and laptops are a popular target for thieves so always keep them hidden. Installing a tracker application on your smart phone could help trace your device if the worst happens and it’s stolen or lost.”
“Operation Magnum is a long-term initiative that aims to reduce theft by deterring thieves who target commuters and tourists."
BTP has released footage of two people who were successfully convicted of theft on the rail network to highlight the tactics used by thieves.
18th December 2014