Large crowds at London 2012 lead to pickpockets

LONDON – “Mind the Pickpockets” is the announcement made on certain stops on the Underground, a statement which rings especially true these days.

The London 2012 Games have attracted huge crowds to the city, but with large numbers of people in one space comes pickpockets.

London Police report the number of muggings and thefts have increased since the Olympics began, because thieves like to prey on large crowds of unsuspecting tourists – stealing cell phones, money, and Olympic tickets – and then disappear into the large crowds in Olympic Park.

Even laptops left in hotel meeting rooms are targets.

“We had a few people [Tuesday] night get their bags stolen in here. You can’t leave your stuff lying around,” said Emily, who works in a popular city pub.

“There’s a girl who had her purse here. She left it on the ground. While she was sitting there, someone stole it. She had her keys, her phone, her wallet, her passport.”

London Police said it can happen to someone who takes their eyes off their valuables for only one second, and it’s best to keep them out of sight.

“Don’t put temptation in other people’s ways, basically,” said an officer, reminding tourists to “to keep their bags closed because so many people walk around with them open.”

Canadian visitors are taking the messages seriously.

“[I] make sure I keep my eye on my things and make sure it’s always in my view,” said Wendy from Montreal.

“You never know. If they’re good, you’re not going to feel it,” said Damon from Saskatoon, who has been the victim of pickpockets on prior travels and has felt slightly paranoid while walking around London.

Katherine, however, has the best solution.

“[I] put all my money and cards inside my bra,” she laughed.

And even Canada’s athletes aren’t immune to thieves. Swimmer David Sharpe said he keeps as much as possible in his front pocket.

“I’m holding my wallet right now!” he chuckled.