Moped muggings on the rise in Hackney, police warn

Superintendent Andy Walker

Police are urging Hackney residents to be vigilant following a “significant increase” in moped muggings across the borough.

Approximately 60 motorbike robberies have taken place since the beginning of 2015, police confirmed.

Those carrying mobile phones and other devices as they walk down the street are most likely to fall victim.

Superintendent Walker said: “This type of crime is now very rare in Hackney, but we have seen a rise in offences committed by offenders on mopeds over the last few weeks.

“Officers are working hard to catch those responsible and we have already made a number of arrests; people will see an increase in patrols, including officers on motorbikes.

“These offences normally occur when people are walking down the street holding mobiles and other devices so I’d really encourage people to take care and be vigilant”

“We’ve had approximately 60 of these offences since the beginning of the year, which represents a significant increase.”