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POLICE IN WALSALL WARN YOUNGSTERS TO PROTECT THEIR MOBILE PHONES
Police in Walsall have re-issued a warning to youngsters to protect their property after another two mobile phone thefts occurred in the area.
The first offence occurred on Sunday 16 January in Rowley Street, Chuckery. The victim, a 13 year old lad, was approached by an Asian man, who asked to use his phone. The lad handed it over, and the offender ran off.
He is described as being Asian, 16-17 years, 5'8 and wearing a baseball cap, a grey and purple hoody and jeans.
The second offence took place Monday 17 January in The Arboretum, Walsall. the victim, a 13 year old girl, was approached by an Asian male, who asked her the time, when she took her mobile phone out of her pocket, he grabbed it and ran off. The offender is described as an Asian male, 5'6-8, aged about 16 and wearing a purple and grey hoody and grey tracksuit bottoms.
Sergeant Bob Harris from Parkhall, Chuckery and Hatherton police neighbourhood team, said:"We are linking these two latest offences and enquiries are ongoing, anyone with information about either of the thefts should contact us at Walsall.
Sgt Harris added:" We want to remind youngsters when they are using mobiles in public places to be aware and conscious about having them on display- mobile phones are valuable commodities for would-be thieves."
Six mobile phone robberies were also reported last week, with offences taking place in Walsall town centre, Willenhall, Darlaston and Bentley.
Officers have issued the following personal safety advice to youngsters and parents:
1. Never bring non essential gadgets to school such as games consoles and MP3 players. They are safer at home and you never know who might have their eyes on them.
2. If you are travelling on public transport, walking to school or in your neighbourhood, never have your phone, games consoles or mp3 players on show. Somebody could try to take them.
3. When you are travelling alone try to stick to busy streets. Shortcuts are a bad idea if they are deserted or have poor lighting.
4. If travelling by bus, sit close to the driver where possible or in view of the CCTV if present, and avoid sitting upstairs if you are by yourself. Check service times before leaving to avoid waiting at bus stops for long periods.
5. You can register your gadgets on a database, so if they are ever lost or stolen and the police do find them, they will check the database and return your things to you. Visit www.registermythings.co.uk for information.
For further information on crime prevention please visit www.west-midlands.police.uk or search West Midlands Police on Facebook or YouTube.
The force also has a Chartered Institute Public Relations (CIPR) award winning educational crime prevention and citizenship website aimed at children aged 5 – 11. Parents and children are invited to visit www.safestreet.info
Anyone with information about any of the robberies should call Walsall Police on 0345 113 5000