A Cautionary Tale in Lewisham: The Perils of Phone Snatchers
In recent weeks, the area around Lewisham station has become a popular spot for opportunistic phone snatchers, particularly those using bikes to target unsuspecting individuals at bus stops and crossings. I’ve noticed this troubling trend and made it a point to warn people about the risks, especially those who hold their phones precariously with the typical three-finger grasp tilted outward.
On a recent stroll past the leisure centre’s bus stop, I encountered an older gentleman engrossed in his double foldable screen smartphone. Recognizing the danger, I attempted to discreetly alert him. With his headphones on, I offered a friendly wave and mimicked the action of tucking a phone safely into a pocket, hoping to convey the message without disruption.
However, he responded by removing his headphones and bluntly asking, “What do you want?” I explained, “There are phone snatchers in this area. You should put your phone away to avoid becoming a target.” His response was curt and dismissive: “Mind your own business,” he said, replacing his headphones and resuming his phone session.
As I walked away, somewhat discouraged by the encounter despite my best intentions, I tried to shake off the annoyance. Just as I turned onto the side street by Sainsbury’s, fate had a humorous twist in store for me—a bird decided that my shoulder was the perfect spot for a less-than-pleasant deposit.
This experience served as a humorous reminder that while you can attempt to guide others, sometimes the universe has its own plans. Stay vigilant, keep your phone secure, and watch out for unexpected surprises in life.