Library image British Transport Police in duty
More than two-thirds of parents and grandparents fear their children or grandchildren will be victims of robbery while using the London railway network, according to new data commissioned by the British Transport Police (BTP).
The findings underscore a period of heightened anxiety for families as young people navigate the capital for school or festive events. The BTP released the survey results alongside a pledge to escalate “intelligence-driven” patrols throughout the Christmas period and into the new year to deter potential offenders.
Recent data reveals a stark demographic trend in railway crime: 70% of perpetrators and the vast majority of robbery victims are aged 18 or under. These incidents occur most frequently during peak travel hours when students are commuting to and from school.
Public concern has also significantly altered passenger behavior. The survey found that nearly half of all respondents now avoid using their mobile phones on station platforms or trains, fearing the devices will be targeted by thieves.
However, despite the high levels of public concern, the BTP highlighted that the statistical likelihood of being targeted remains low. Data from the most recent policing year (April 2024 to March 2025) shows:
- Incidence Rate: Less than one robbery occurred for every million passenger journeys.
- Operational Response: The BTP has increased plain-clothes and uniformed patrols following a nationwide spike in robbery reports in 2023.
The BTP stated that its prioritization of robbery has already led to the removal of weapons from the network and the conviction of high-profile offenders. “Every robbery is one too many,” a BTP spokesperson said, noting that while the network remains statistically safe, the force is committed to providing a “visible, reassuring presence” during the longer winter nights.
BTP Superintendent John Loveless said:
“It is understandable and natural that parents, grandparents and guardians feel a sense of concern that their children may be a victim of robbery as they travel on the transport network, particularly with the nights having drawn in and London growing busier for the festive period. I would like to reassure those people by reaffirming that our officers are working around the clock to keep their families safe when they travel.
“Robbery is an extremely serious offence and we will always investigate every report made to us, regardless of whether the victim knows the specific carriage or platform location, and we encourage all victims to report such incidents so that we can take action. The survey highlighted that only half of commuters are aware they can text us on 61016 to report any crimes or concerns they see on the transport network. I would urge everyone to save the number in their phone and text us or have information you wish to pass on, and in an emergency always dial 999.
“Our officers will conduct immediate enquiries to trace offenders, taking advantage of the wealth of CCTV footage we have access to. Robbery offences will never be tolerated on the railway network, and we will continue to work hard to keep the travelling public safe.”