Tricks of the picketpocket gangs

Tube passengers were today warned about organised gangs of pickpockets roaming the transport system.

Leaflets will be handed out by police showing how easy it is for thieves to steal from unwary victims, in a campaign to highlight the risk in the run-up to Christmas.

Chief Superintendent Mark Newton of the British Transport Police said: "We have evidence of organised gangs targeting people on the Underground system and there is a lot of hidden work that goes on to tackle them."

Transport officers are working with police in Bulgaria and Romania to tackle eastern European gangs operating in London. British Transport Police revealed that 1,144 people had valuables stolen on the Tube in November and December last year, 100 more than in the same period the previous year.

"There are simple measures which can stop people becoming victims," said Chief Supt Newton.

"Pickpockets look for open zippers on bags, and will help themselves to wallets and purses that are visible in pockets."

The leaflets show how thieves use distraction techniques or newspapers and clothes to hide their hands so they can commit thefts.

Police said passengers should zip up pockets, keep valuables deep inside bags and carry wallets and phones in a front or inside pocket and keep all items in sight.

Plain-clothes officers are increasing their patrols over the Christmas period to spot and arrest pickpockets.