Met Police Arrest 711 in Phone Theft and E-bike Crackdown

The Metropolitan Police arrested 711 individuals during a month-long operation in September focused on tackling phone theft and robbery across London. The crackdown also resulted in the seizure of more than 110 illegally modified e-bikes, which police stated are frequently used by thieves.

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The operations targeted phone snatching, robbery, and the handling of stolen goods. Scotland Yard has intensified efforts to combat crimes that disproportionately affect London residents. Officers conducted targeted operations in robbery hotspots and areas where theft from the person is a persistent issue.

During the September crackdown, police also recovered hundreds of suspected stolen mobile phones. These devices were returned to their owners, and investigations are ongoing to dismantle criminal networks involved in the theft and resale of phones. The Metropolitan Police stated that tackling robbery and phone theft is a key priority to enhance public confidence and safety on the streets.

Rising Offence Figures

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The arrests and seizures come as recorded phone theft and robbery offences saw an increase. In August 2026, 3,963 such offences were recorded, a rise from 3,311 in August 2022. The Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, has previously called for phone companies to make stolen handsets unusable. The force also highlighted that adverts on social media platforms have offered payment for stolen iPhones.

The international trade in stolen phones is a significant concern, with devices stolen in London fetching higher prices in markets like China due to fewer government restrictions. The Metropolitan Police also warned that criminals are increasingly using social engineering tactics, such as impersonating known businesses, to obtain phone passwords and account details from victims.