Met Police deploy drones and e-bikes to address phone thefts involving children

In Brief

Metropolitan Police report using drones and e-bikes to respond to phone thefts involving children recruited via Snapchat.

Key Facts

• The Metropolitan Police say they are using drones and Surron e-bikes to pursue suspects in phone theft cases in London
• Police report that gangs are recruiting children to steal smartphones before school
• According to police, Snapchat is used by gangs to offer cash rewards up to £380 for stolen iPhones
• The Metropolitan Police have warned that young children are being targeted over social media to steal phones
• The police describe the new resources as part of efforts to respond to phone snatching incidents

What Happened

The Metropolitan Police report deploying drones and Surron e-bikes to assist in pursuing suspects involved in phone thefts in London. Police state that gangs are recruiting children via Snapchat, offering cash rewards up to £380 for stolen iPhones. Authorities have also warned that young children are being targeted through social media to participate in these thefts.

Why It Matters

The Metropolitan Police describe the deployment of new technology and tactics as a response to criminal activity involving minors and social media. The police warnings about children being targeted highlight concerns about youth involvement in crime. These measures reflect police efforts to address phone theft and protect vulnerable groups.