How not to be a victim

REPORT FROM ELY POLICE

ROBBERS have targeted three people in Ely in the past month, stealing their property.

Detectives have made three arrests in relation to these crimes and the offenders are currently on bail pending further enquiries.

Now Ely police have offered some tips on how to avoid street robbery and mugging, which are still rare and form only a very small part of recorded crime.

Robbery is taken very seriously, however, and an incident will always be allocated to a detective who will thoroughly investigate the crime.

A few simple precautions can help to eliminate the risk of becoming a victim.

* When out and about, the safest place to be in is a bright, well lit and busy area. Try to look and act confident, showing that you know where you are going.

* The best way to ensure that you do not become a victim of theft is to not advertise your items to thieves.

* Avoid leaving mobile phones and wallets on tables as they can be easily removed when you are not paying attention.

* Always ensure that handbags are closed and in a secure area never left unattended in shopping trolleys or at the back of a chair.

* Avoid talking on mobile phones or listening to mp3 players while walking as you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you.

* Always ensure that you are not taking any unnecessary risks.

You might also like to spread your valuables around your body. For example, keep your keys in your trouser pocket, mobile phone in your bag and money in your jacket pocket, and then, if the worst does happen, the loss to you will be reduced.

If someone tries to take something from you, it may be better to let them take it rather than getting into a confrontation and risking injury.

Pickpocketing is slightly different, as you will not be aware of the offence taking place.