Parents asked to help prevent robberies

Parents asked to help prevent robberies

Parents of pupils across Rochdale, Middleton and Heywood are being asked to help prevent young people from being robbed.

There has recently been an increase in incidents at locations popular with young people where they have been robbed by other youngsters.

Police have therefore been handing out warning cards reminding pupils that robbery is an offence and could lead to a criminal record.

The cards also give advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of robbery, such as staying with friends, keeping mobile phones and other electronic items concealed and registering all valuables at www.immobilise.com
In addition, a letter has been sent to parents to make them aware of the problem and to ask that they reinforce the messages contained on the warning cards.

Superintendent John Graves of Greater Manchester Police’s Rochdale Division said: “We want parents to discuss these issues with their children.

“To avoid trouble, young people need to use common sense and vigilance when walking home from school, especially if walking through parks, along canal banks or in other secluded locations.

“The warning cards also give advice to any young person thinking about committing robbery – they must understand it is a crime, not a game or a joke.

“If you commit a robbery it could ruin your prospects in life – it’s that simple.”