Robberies may be down in this city, but Surrey Mounties are asking the public to beware street thugs armed with bear spray and knives.
In the past several months, there's been a shift from robbing financial institutions to street-level robberies.
A lot of that has to do with high-priced electronics people are carrying around.
“With the popularity of expensive portable electronics, members of the public, especially young people, are asked to be cautious and keep items like iPods and cellphones out of sight (including headphones) while outside high traffic areas like malls, movie theatres, or fast food locations,” said Surrey RCMP Cpl. Drew Grainger.
“Their small size, relatively high monetary value, and the distraction they present while listening to music, all offer easy pickings for would be robbers.”
Police are urging anyone who is being robbed not to take any unnecessary risks.
That means, remain calm and give up the device. Be mindful of the person's appearance so you can give that to police.
As soon as they leave, call 911.
Parents are also encouraged to have discussions with their teens about being safe with their electronics while out on the street.
Have the serial number of the device written down in a safe place, and whenever possible, simply leave it at home.
Grainger said over the last six months, police have seen an increase in the amount of street theft, often involving weapons, such as knives or bear spray.
Anyone with information on robberies in the City of Surrey is encouraged to contact the Surrey RCMP’s Robbery Section at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS if you wish to remain anonymous.