Cookstown PSNI target stolen and missing mobile phones

For the month of November, local officers are ‘teaming up’ with local licensed premises in a bid to tackle this issue and to promote crime prevention measures which members of the public can adopt to help prevent them becoming a victim of crime.

The campaign is predominately aimed at 18 to 24-year-olds as analysis indicates that this age group is particularly prone to report stolen or missing phones, however the crime prevention advice will be of benefit to everyone.

The campaign is being rolled out in various nightclubs and licensed premises in Cookstown and posted on the PSNI’s Facebook pages.

Detective Inspector Hazel Reid also features in a short crime prevention film, which can be viewed on the PSNI’s Facebook pages.

This will give people practical advice on how to prevent the theft of mobile phones.

Local PSNI Inspector Keith Jamieson has urged members of the public to remain vigilant in a bid to combat mobile thefts in the area.

Inspector Jamieson said: “Members of the public can reduce the risk of mobile theft by following a few simple steps.

“Don’t leave your phone on tables in pubs or restaurants and try to avoid walking and texting at the same time, you will be less aware of what is happening around you and the phone will be on show.

“Keep calls in public places as brief as possible, the longer you talk, the more likely you are to be spotted by a potential thief.

“Don’t tempt these mobile phone thieves; be aware when making a call.

“Remember that thieves frequently operate in crowded places in the town centre.By taking a few simple steps you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of mobile phone theft,” she said.

Always use your phone’s security lock code or PIN number.

Security mark the battery (and phone) with your postcode and street number or the first two letters of your house name.

When using your phone, remain aware of your surroundings and do not use it in crowded areas or where you feel unsafe.