Garda-Moblie Phone Safety-Crime Prevention Day of Action 14th March 2016

Garda: Almost €3m worth of mobile phones stolen since 2015

 

- 60% of thefts and robberies involve the stealing of a mobile phone
- Just one in three people who reported their mobile phone stolen had their IMEI number recorded
- Two out of every five thefts and robberies occur between 10pm and 4am.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

'People should avoid leaving their phone on tables in bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. All too often we see criminals simply walk past the table while people are distracted and grab the phone. If making or receiving a call in public, always do so with your back against a wall or shop window. This reduces the chances of a criminal snatching your phone,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facts on thefts/ robberies
• St. Patrick’s Day and the period around it experienced higher levels of thefts and robbery in 2014 and 2015.
• Since 2015 over half of reported theft and robbery incidents occur between Friday and Sunday.
• Two out of every five thefts and robberies occur between 10pm and 4am.
• Almost 35% of thefts and robberies occur on a street/road location.

 

What is taken?
• Since 2015 the total value of items taken during thefts and robbery incidents was €4,387,883.
• The most common items stolen since 2015 were mobile phones, followed by cash, and handbags, purses and wallets.
• Almost 60% of thefts and robberies involve the stealing of a mobile phone.
• Almost €3million worth of phones was reported stolen since 2015.
• Only one in three people who reported their mobile phone stolen had their IMEI number recorded.

Sergeant Kelvin Courtney of the National Crime Prevention Unit is available for phone interview on the morning of the 14/03/16 between 10am and 1pm. Requests should be forwarded to pressoffice@garda.iewith contact details.
An infographic relating to protecting your smart phone is available on the Garda web site, see www.garda.ie