Police warn football fans to watch out for 'bagsmen' during World Cup matches

Football fans are being urged to keep hold of their belongings while watching World Cup matches in pubs and bars this summer, as opportunistic thieves look to capitalise on the excitement of the tournament.

The City of London Police is warning supporters to be on the lookout for so-called "bagsmen" – criminals who target unattended bags, handbags and personal belongings while fans are distracted by the action on screen.

Just as the world’s top bagsmen (goalscorers) are looking to fill their boots during the tournament, street bagsmen (bag thieves) are seeking opportunities by taking advantage of crowded venues and moments when fans' attention is elsewhere.

Bag thieves operate in busy licensed premises, often working quickly and discreetly to steal bags left on chairs, under tables or beside their owners.

Detective Superintendent Jonathan Ball, City of London Police, said:

"While fans are focused on the football, bag thieves are looking for chances to score on and off the pitch.

"These thieves don't need many opportunities. A momentary distraction when celebrating a goal, ordering a drink or discussing the match can be all it takes for a bag to disappear. The last thing you want to do is to give them an easy assist.

"VAR will be in used throughout the City and our control officers will be operating CCTV cameras from their very own Stockley Park, looking out for any foul play. On the ground, plain clothes police officers will be defending people from crime and tackling criminals.

"Keep bags close to you, secure them where possible, and never leave valuables unattended. By taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure the only thing you're talking about after the final whistle is the football."

The City of London Police is advising fans to:

• keep bags, phones and wallets in sight at all times;
• loop bag straps around a chair leg or keep them on your person;
• avoid placing bags on the backs of chairs or leaving them on the floor;
• stay alert in crowded venues, particularly during key moments in matches; and
• report suspicious behaviour to venue staff or police.

Anyone who believes they have been the victim of theft should report it to police as soon as possible.

The England team’s equipment bags were stolen before their first World Cup training session in Kansas City. Thankfully a lot of the equipment was recovered and two arrests  were made.

Safer City Streets is the City of London Police’s commitment to keeping the Square Mile one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit. By combining highly visible neighbourhood policing, intelligence-led hotspot patrols, cutting-edge technology and strong partnerships with businesses and communities, we are preventing crime, targeting prolific offenders and delivering safer, more welcoming streets. From tackling phone snatching and retail crime to reducing violence and anti-social behaviour, Safer City Streets aims to make people feel safe as well as being safe.