As part of its ongoing online crime prevention campaign, the Police is now launching a new video clip in order to educate the public about theft from beaches, from places of entertainment and pick pocketing.

Pick pocketing and theft from places of entertainment

“Last year, a total of 2030 pick pocketing reports have been lodged throughout Malta and Gozo.  Pick pocketing reports reached the peak in July with 402 reports.

In relation to another crime which is similar to pick pocketing, the Police received 706 reports of theft from bars throughout 2015 with the majority of cases being reported in July.

In order to prevent such thefts one should always carry the handbag (or man purse) closed and in front and not on a pushchair’s handle or in a supermarket trolley.

Our advice is that individuals should be more vigilant on their belongings when in a crowd.  Keeping valuable items especially a phone in a bag is not recommended.

In the majority of cases we encounter, the second most stolen item to moneys is mobile phones, since the value of a phone has increased sharply in the past years.  Generally robbers steal bags and immediately throw it away, keeping valuables and shortly remove phone sim cars in order not to be traced.”

Theft from beaches

“During last year’s Summer, the Police received about 318 reports of theft from beaches.  148 reports have been received during June and July 2015 – a decrease when compared to this year’s 91 reports. 

It is recommended that valuable items are not taken to the beach and if in a group, an individual should always stay on the beach to keep an eye on the bags.

If someone notices a suspect, one should make it a point to show the suspect that s/he is being watched.  In most cases, thieves will understand they are being observed and leave the area.

We always advice that individuals should always keep an eye on their valuables.”