London’s Metropolitan Police have introduced an expanded fleet of electric motorcycles as part of efforts to combat street crimes, including mobile phone theft, in the city. The new deployment, comprising 20 e-motorbikes capable of reaching speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour and navigating off-road terrain and stairs, is intended to enhance officers’ ability to pursue suspects in urban environments.

The initiative was highlighted during a patrol on August 26, where a senior Metropolitan Police officer described the e-motorbikes as a “game changer” in addressing so-called snatch offences. In addition to the motorcycles, the force has utilized drones to strengthen its operational capabilities. However, the officer noted that repeat offenders appear to be adapting to changes in policing tactics.

Data from the Metropolitan Police indicate that mobile phone thefts in London have declined in the 12 months leading up to May, dropping from approximately 68,000 incidents to 54,000. Despite this reduction, the proportion of offences leading to a “positive outcome”—such as a caution, charge, or other criminal sanction—remains under 1 percent.

Kaya Comer-Schwartz, London’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, emphasized that addressing issues like phone theft requires broader measures beyond policing. She pointed to the importance of reforming the criminal justice system and providing support for victims to effectively reduce such crimes.

The issue of crime in London has attracted attention from international figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump and entrepreneur Elon Musk, who have publicly expressed concerns about safety and policing in the city. Trump notably alleged the existence of “no-go” areas where police presence is limited. Nonetheless, recent figures show a decline in neighborhood crimes, including theft, robbery, and burglary, in the year leading up to June.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has criticized those who seek to portray the city negatively, particularly individuals commenting on social media and from abroad. Louise Puddefoot, the Metropolitan Police’s deputy assistant commissioner for front-line policing, said the force aims to focus on delivering results rather than engaging in political debate over crime perceptions.

“I think my job is to show people that we’re tackling criminality, provide the data and the figures so they appreciate that we’re not the most dangerous capital city around, and provide that reassurance,” Puddefoot said, emphasizing the force’s priority on public confidence and effective crime reduction strategies.