How to avoid a moped attack

Number of offences by moped-riding muggers
has rocketed in UK

One-Minute Read

Comedian Michael McIntyre and finance pundit Martin Lewis
are among the increasing number of victims of moped-riding
thieves.

Inadequate security on scooters that makes them easy to steal,
and the growing market for stolen mobile phones, have been cited as
two factors behind the crime wave.

David Videcette, a former Metropolitan Police
counterterror detective, has taken to Twitter to offer tips on how
to avoid becoming a victim.

“Vary your routine,” he writes. “Plan ahead. Not planning for
these sorts of events is why we become easy targets. Different
routes to and from home are a good idea. Are you being
watched/followed?”

If you do become a victim, or a witness, to a moped offence,
Videcette recommends looking out for distinguishing features on the
mugger or moped. “We want to see makes of clothing. The attackers
eyes. Distinctive marks or features on the moped, scratches, so we
can link to the scene,” Videcette advises.

Kirsty Henderson, director of Personal Safety London, which
provides self-defence training, has also shared her tips.

Her main piece of advice is not to listen to music or use phones
when on the move. “It means you are in a bubble,” she told the
BBC.

Henderson recommends popping into a shop or cafe to take calls
and check messages.

Scotland Yard has also advised people to use hands-free devices
and to stick to well-lit streets at night.