Less than one per cent of phone theft cases lead to a criminal charge, figures show

"Fewer than one per cent of mobile phone thefts result in a charge, with nearly nine in 10 cases closed without a suspect being identified. The Met Police closed 95 per cent of their investigations, highlighting a significant issue in addressing phone thefts."

"Max Wilkinson, the Lib Dems' home affairs spokesman, stated that Morgan McSweeney's phone theft is just the tip of the iceberg, suggesting that phone theft has been effectively decriminalised, emboldening criminal gangs to operate in broad daylight."

"A stolen phone isn't just an expensive item; it holds your entire digital life, from bank accounts to private messages. The closure of thousands of cases without naming a suspect is a slap in the face to victims."

"The Liberal Democrats are calling for a dedicated National Crime Agency unit to track down the professional gangs behind these thefts and end the era of daylight robbery."

Police data reveals that less than 1% of mobile phone thefts result in charges, with 90% of cases closed without a suspect. In 2024-25, the Met Police reported 86,000 phone thefts, closing 95% of investigations. The issue gained attention after Morgan McSweeney's government phone was stolen, leading to a flawed investigation. The Liberal Democrats criticize the situation, suggesting that criminal gangs operate with impunity due to low chances of being caught. They advocate for a dedicated National Crime Agency unit to combat the rise in phone thefts.

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