Operation to keep Christmas market shoppers safe
POLICE in Birmingham city centre will be increasing patrols this week to ensure that visitors coming to the German Market remain safe.
The Frankfurt German Market opens once again this evening (Thursday 17 November) and officers will be working closely with market security staff and city centre wardens to prevent and deter crime.
Last year, over 3 million people visited the market with only 20 crimes being reported.
17 of these crimes were pick-pocket related while a further three were theft from stalls.
To reduce this number even further, officers have stepped up patrols in the area and advising visitors from across the country on how they can make the most of their visit in a safe and secure manner.
Visitors to the popular attraction will also be issued with general Christmas crime reduction messages courtesy of the Marketing Birmingham stall.
Inspector Andy Bridgewater, from Birmingham Central police station, said: “Last year, thee million people visited the markets with only a tiny minority unfortunate enough to become victims of crime.
“Nearly all of the offences committed were opportunistic pickpocket type incidents.
“With this in mind, we’ll be increasing our patrols and working with city centre wardens and market security staff to offer simple safety tips and ensure criminals do not give Birmingham a bad name.
“In addition to our usual high visibility patrols, our officers will also be posing as shoppers as part of a series of plain clothed operations.”
Inspector Bridgewater has these simple steps to staying safe when visiting the markets:
- Keep bags closed and close to you
- Never put valuables in your back pockets
- Stay with your friends
- Be discreet when using mobile phones or handling cash
- Be aware of your surroundings
Visitors can contact officers via one of the many help points dotted around the city centre which connect direct to the police control room.
For tips on how to stay safe when out and about, visit: www.safer-streets.org
