Criminal Gangs Target Rich and Famous

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to rise, it is predicted that criminal gangs will become even more determined!

Firstly, nobody should have to compromise their lifestyle or live in fear. The purpose of this article is not to scare anyone but to simply draw attention to what is happening, as well as to raise awareness. We hope you can benefit from this 10-minute read as we cover the basics. It might help prevent you from falling victim to dangerous and organised criminal gangs hell-bent on taking what they can.

If you live a luxurious lifestyle or are considered high-risk, then continue reading. Even if you feel you’re not high-risk, this article can still benefit you too!

The Danger of Modern-Day Criminal Organisations

Today we draw your attention to an alarming rise of well-organised criminal gangs. We’re not talking about the random opportunist thief or local hoodlum trying to jump a fence to pinch a bike. We’re talking about the type of criminal that would stop at nothing and stalk their victims carefully. They’ve seen the expensive jewellery, the expensive cars, they know the victim likes fine vintage wines, collectable art, expensive clothes or gadgets, and they know the whereabouts and routines of those they pray on.

Organised crime against wealthy people is on the rise. Often these victims have limited to no security protection whatsoever. Therefore, it has become all too easy for criminals to plan elaborate robberies where they get away with thousands with very little risk of getting caught.

Is There Such a Thing as Intelligent Criminals?

Let’s not underestimate the situation. Criminals want to maximise their opportunities and reduce the risks. Therefore, these criminal gangs are becoming a lot more attentive and resourceful. Additionally, they are very elusive and difficult for the police to apprehend.

Today’s criminals have access to so much technology and they are certainly using it.

From the internet, they can often get detailed floor plans and information about a property. Google maps can be used to scope out the area. Furthermore, a drone could be used to fly over areas to scope out security and note where cameras might be located. They can see where the best access points are and note where expensive items are located. Even how to plan their exit precisely to the second, all while keeping a watchful eye live from the sky for any pursuing police or security.

Additionally, criminals can know the occupant’s whereabouts and daily routines by tracking devices, cyber hacking, and social media. All this accessible intelligence-gathering used by criminals is to the detriment of the victims. The criminal can minimise their risks and maximise their reward.

You may think it sounds like a lot of work and way too elaborate for a criminal. However, we aren’t talking about your average joe. This is a new era for a career criminal or criminal gang that can make thousands.

It’s Become Attractive for International Gangs too

Criminal gangs aren’t just from the UK, they are travelling here from all over the world. It has become international. Known as ‘Burglary Tourism’, it is where criminal gangs specifically travel to the UK to target pre-selected homes, high-profile individuals, families, or businesses. They can gather information prior to getting to the UK, they arrive, commit their crimes, and disappear without a trace. Taking with them valuable assets that quickly disappear out of the UK and into the underworld. Consequently, making the stolen assets and the criminals almost impossible to find.

Daylight and Public Places Offer little Protection

Things happen quickly and a victim can lose thousands within seconds. Expensive cars, jewellery and watches are being stolen from people in broad daylight and in public places. Often these criminals are violent towards anyone brave enough to try to stop them. They simply don’t care and will do anything to avoid getting apprehended. Violent assaults and stabbings are common, and people have even lost their lives.

Stalking WEALTHY shoppers

In some cases, shoppers who have been purchasing expensive items have been tracked and later robbed. These victims have been followed back to their homes, where the criminals have then entered the property and taken valuable items, fine art, collectors’ items, personal belongings, bank details and valuable information used for identity theft.

How Big Is the Problem?

According to official data, the number of violent robberies and theft offences in the UK has seen a significant rise over the years. Crime throughout Covid lockdowns was reduced but 2022 has seen a staggering rise. Specific to London, the overall crime rate in 2021 was 87 crimes per 1,000 people. Compared with the UK, London’s crime rate was 9% worse than the UK average of 79.52 per 1,000 people. ( Source – https://crimerate.co.uk/london )

Evidentially, it was the wealthiest and most affluent areas that were targeted the most. Out of all of London’s boroughs, Westminster is the most dangerous. Followed by Kensington and Chelsea, and Camden comes in as the third most dangerous.

It has been widely reported by officials and within the national press, that the rise in crime can be linked to escalating demand for drugs and the cost-of-living crisis. Subsequently, it is predicted that this could fuel criminal gangs to become even more organised and determined. Especially, if they aren’t getting caught and the opportunity is so inviting for them!

See the links above in the Resource section for specific and useful information.

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