20/07/2006

Mobiles and MP3 players blamed for rise in street crime

A rise in the number of people carrying mobile phones and MP3 players is being blamed for a rise in street crimes according to the latest home office figures.

The figures showed muggings and robberies in England and Wales shot up by 8 per cent.

According to police figures 98,204 robberies happened in 2005/6 compared with 90,747 the previous year.

Home Secretary John Reid said he shared the concerns of many people that the numbers of violent offences recorded by the police have increased, particularly robbery.

"This is largely driven by a rise in the number of young people carrying expensive goods, such as mobile phones and MP3 players. Whilst that is a reason, it is not an excuse. I am determined to reverse the rise in recorded robbery and am already taking action to address it."

The Home Office is working with 27 areas with particularly high robbery problems, and giving targeted expert advice to reduce the levels of street crime.

(CD)

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