Snatch theft on the rise, public urged to be alert

Snatch theft is on the rise in the federal capital with 368 cases reported so far this year.

Kuala Lumpur deputy police chief Mazlan Lazim said the number indicated a drastic hike compared to 234 cases during the whole of last year.

"Snatch theft cases have gone up lately. We urge the public to be careful, don't provide opportunities to criminals, safeguard your handbags and valuable items," he told reporters after a crime prevention programme and launching the Kuala Lumpur Police Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP) at the Sri Sarawak Flats in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

He said police always endeavoured to reduce the snatch theft crime index but the public must also play their part by furnishing information to the police to enable them to act to solve cases.

Mazlan also suggested that the public used the VSP application to channel information and complaints on crimes taking place near them.

- Bernama