Officers join in national week of action against personal robbery

We have carried out a series of patrols in high-footfall towns and shopping areas across the county this month, as part of a national operation to prevent personal robbery.

Officers have visited schools, attended community meetings and worked with partners, as part of Operation Calibre, which ran between 10 and 17 December this year.

The operation saw more than 350 arrests take place nationally – with 196 people arrested on suspicion of robbery offences.

Detective Inspector Peter Goodwin, the force’s robbery lead, said: “Personal robbery has a devastating impact on victims, leaving them with trauma which can be long-lasting. We know criminals look for easy opportunities, often targeting some of the most vulnerable in society.

“While personal robberies are at their lowest levels nationally since 2016, we cannot afford to take this for granted and must continue to target prolific offenders who are often responsible for these types of crimes.

“This is why this week of action deliberately coincided with the build-up to the festive period, when shoppers are likely to be out purchasing for gifts for their loved ones.

“We are determined to protect the public from the impact of personal robbery in whatever way we can.”

In order to protect yourself from robbery, we advise that you follow the below safety tips:

• You are less likely to be targeted if you look confident. Move with purpose and try to be aware of your surroundings
• Plan your route and think about what to take with you, especially if you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before
• Keep to busy, well-lit streets, walkways and paths which are more likely to be covered by CCTV
• Only take licensed taxis or minicabs booked by phone or a mobile phone app
• Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight. If you’re using your phone it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, so look around you
• Never leave a mobile, any other device, wallet or purse on the table of an outdoor café, pub or restaurant. The same goes for any jewellery you might be wearing – keep it covered when walking down the street
• When using ATMs, be aware of anyone standing close by and always check the machine to see if it’s been tampered with before you use it. Ensure you are not distracted, cover your PIN and put your cards and money away quickly.
• Most importantly, if you are threatened with violence, do not risk your personal safety. Property can be replaced, you cannot.

For more advice, visit: How to protect yourself from street robbery | Staffordshire Police