As well Sector officers, Motor Vehicle Crime Squad, Borough Task Force, and other officers attached to this operation, we have had Mounted Branch on the Southern part of the borough, as part of a high visibility police presence on the Ramsden Estate. Their presence has had a disruptive effect on the behaviour of criminals operating in that area, with motor vehicle crime down 40% (20% across the whole borough since this operation began). Bromley police have taken action against a crack house in the Northern part of the borough. Burglary is down 10% across the borough.

Robbery, whist still very low compared to other parts of London, is at the same level, please see the crime prevention advice below around personal safety.

Please ring Crimestoppers (number at the bottom of this e-mail) if you have any information about anyone selling stolen goods.

Personal Safety Advice

The chances of you or a member of your family becoming a victim of violent crime is low. Violent crimes are still comparatively rare, however the best way to minimise the risk of attack is by taking sensible precautions:

If you are out on your own, arrange to be taken home safely.

Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot pull up behind you.

Stick to well-lit roads with pavements. On commons and parklands, keep to main paths and open spaces where you can see and be seen by other people.

If you think someone is following you, and you have checked by crossing the street - more than once if necessary - then go to the nearest place where there are other people - a pub or anywhere with a lot of lights on - and call the police. Avoid using an enclosed phone box in the street, as the attacker could trap you inside.

If a car stops and you are threatened, scream and shout, and set off your personal attack alarm if you have one. Get away as quickly as you can. If you can, make a mental note of the number and description of the car and write details down as soon as possible afterwards.

Try not to walk too closely behind a woman out late at night on her own.

Don't hitch-hike or take lifts from strangers

Think about getting a personal alarm (from DIY shops), and keep it where you can get to it easily - don't leave it at the bottom of your handbag.

If your job involves travel in your car, think about getting a car phone/mobile phone..

Cover up expensive looking jewellery, when walking alone.

On the telephone, never reveal any information about yourself to a stranger, and never say you are alone.

Self-defence and safety awareness classes may help you feel more secure.

Personal possessions

Cash is a favourite target for thieves so try to avoid carrying large amounts.

Wallets carried in back pockets are vulnerable to pickpockets. Keep it in a front trouser or inside jacket pocket, preferably one which fastens.

Keep your purse safe at all times. It is an easy target for casual thieves.

In public places, keep your handbag close to you where you can see it. Keep the clasp or zip shut.

Always keep your cheque card separate from your cheque book; a thief needs both to write a cheque.

Never carry the personal identification number (PIN) with your cash dispensing cards. Always memorise your number, and never disclose it, not even to bank staff or close friends

For lost or stolen cards, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.

Telephone Card Watch Campaign on 0870 550 0005 for a free advice leaflet on how to look after your plastic cards.

When on holiday abroad, take travellers cheques.

Only carry your passport when you need to. Thieves can sell stolen passports, and replacing them takes time and trouble.

Theft of mobile phones and Ipods is becoming more and more common but you can help to minimise the risk. Keep your phone out of sight, whether in the car or in the street.

Compiled by Bromley Borough Intelligence Unit

19^th May 2006

saferbromley partnership

www.bromley.gov.uk