Birmingham schoolchildren targeted in robberies. Police patrols increased in Kingstanding; safety advice issued.
This guy is around Kingstanding, near the pub and bingo hall. He asks kids for the time, then grabs their phone when they look.
The school said police told them about him. He’s near the Golden Hind, and also by the Crossway and Mecca Bingo. They want kids to be careful of this suspect.
He’s tall with dreadlocks hiding his eyes. He wears all black, plus a face mask, and has a red lanyard. He often carries a backpack.
The school told kids not to talk to him, and to stay in groups. They need to cross the street to avoid him. Another school gave the same warning.
Police increased patrols after school, following reports of a robbery. They also heard about two attempts. Police are giving safety tips to students regarding safety.
Police investigate these Kingstanding reports. They are helping the victims and families, and work with travel safety officers. Specialist officers give advice.
Police want anyone with information to contact them. Use Live Chat on the police website, or call 101 and mention crime number 20/127771/25.
Parents should talk to their kids. Tell them to hide their phones and keep their belongings hidden on the way to school.
You can report crime tips anonymously by calling Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. They are a charity separate from the police.
