Camden, Islington and Lambeth among 10 boroughs seeing new crime spike

New analysis by specialist insurer SJL has revealed that theft from person crimes have soared across London boroughs.

Theft from person crimes are defined as those where property is stolen directly from a person without the use of violence or threat, such as phone snatching, bag snatching and pickpocketing.

The figures revealed that all 10 of the UK’s fastest growing crime areas were found in London, each of the boroughs seeing theft rates increase by more than 50% over the 12 months to December 2024.

The north east borough of Waltham Forest saw the largest crime increases, with thefts up 118% year-on-year, followed by Hillingdon with a 100% increase and Hounslow, which saw thefts climb 69%.

Lewisham, Camden, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Harrow, Islington and Brent likewise saw theft from person reports grow by more than half.

As Insurance Times previously reported, the UK has become the epicentre of the European phone theft crisis, seeing 40% of the claims in major European markets.

Distracted environments

Craig Morgan, director at SJL Insurance Services, said: “These crimes are quick, quiet and often go unnoticed until it’s too late. From busy train stations and packed shopping centres to music festivals and nightlife hotspots, we’re seeing offenders take advantage of crowded, distracted environments.

“No one is immune and many victims don’t even realise they’ve been targeted until long after the offender has vanished.

“It’s vital to stay alert, especially in areas where theft from the person has surged. We’re urging people to keep bags zipped, phones stashed away in crowded areas and valuables secured at all times.

“Something as simple as wearing a cross-body bag, keeping items in front pockets instead of back ones, or using anti-theft accessories can make a big difference.”