Mobile phone thieves targeted in campaign

May 23 2003 By Hazel Ettienne, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A NEW campaign has been launched in a bid to stop mobile phone thieves.

More than 4,000 mobile phone users are being sent a special text message by West Yorkshire Police.

It urges them to ring their mobile phone network straight away if their phone is snatched to stop it from being used again.

The texting initiative, funded by Government cash aimed at tackling street crime, runs alongside an advertising campaign targeting phone thieves.

The campaign, which reminds mobile phone users "if it's nicked, it's knackered", points out that all mobile phone networks will now bar stolen phones. It also tells thieves they now face tougher penalties in the form of a jail sentence of up to five years.

Detective Supt Ian Wilson, who is heading the force robbery reduction campaign, said: "What's the point in stealing a mobile phone?

"You're risking five years in prison for something which can be rendered useless immediately."

Mobile phone thefts still account for a significant number of street robberies with young people being the most vulnerable.

People are warned not to use their phones in crowded areas and to keep them out of view when not in use.

They should also record the 15 digit serial number and the IMEI number - accessed by keying in *#06#. Phones and batteries should be security marked with permanent ink and registered with the operator.

When reporting a stolen phone, the police will need the cover details, phone number, serial or IMEI number and pin number.