London police are facing a surge in smartphone thefts orchestrated by criminal gangs who are recruiting children as young as 14 to carry out the crimes. These gangs are utilizing Snapchat to incentivize thefts, offering rewards of up to £380 for the latest Apple iPhone models.
Latest Tactics in Response to Rising Theft
The Metropolitan Police are responding to this escalating issue with new resources, including drones and Surron ebikes, to pursue and apprehend suspects. London is identified as the area in Britain most affected by phone theft and the Met has faced criticism regarding its previous response.
While reported thefts have decreased by 12% in the last year, totaling 71,000, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley is calling on technology companies, particularly Apple, to enhance security measures and make stolen phones more difficult to reactivate and resell internationally.
Focus on iPhone Reactivation
The Met believes newer Apple phones are less protected, making them easier to ship overseas and reactivate for markets in the Gulf, and China. Samsung phones are reportedly less valuable to thieves because they are harder to reactivate for international use. Thieves communicate with a “handler” on Snapchat after a theft to arrange a drop-off, with bonuses offered for larger quantities – an additional £100 for handing over 10 or more stolen phones at once.
The Metropolitan Police are deploying drones to target known offenders and track fleeing suspects, particularly in London’s West End, a hotspot for phone theft due to the prevalence of tourists. Specially trained officers are similarly utilizing Surron ebikes to pursue young suspects on bicycles. Live facial recognition technology is also being employed in the effort.
Increased Funding and Collaboration
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced an additional £4.5 million in funding for a new police command centre dedicated to tackling these phone gangs. This new cell will focus on disrupting the operations of gang leaders as well as the individuals carrying out the thefts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being done to address the issue of phone theft in London?
The Metropolitan Police are deploying drones, Surron ebikes, and live facial recognition technology. £4.5 million in funding has been allocated for a new police command centre focused on dismantling phone theft gangs.
How are the gangs recruiting children to steal phones?
Gangs are using Snapchat to offer cash rewards, up to £380 for an iPhone 16 Max, to children who steal smartphones. Bonuses are offered for larger quantities of stolen devices.
Why are Apple phones specifically targeted?
The Met believes newer Apple phones are less protected and easier to ship overseas and reactivate for use in markets like the Gulf and China.
As technology continues to evolve, will law enforcement and tech companies be able to effectively collaborate to curb this type of crime and protect both citizens and their personal data?
