UK Police preparing for a wave of violent crimes this winter
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Rising living costs, according to UK police chiefs, could lead to a massive increase in burglary and blackmail.
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Police officers stand outside the scene of a fatal stabbing in south London. (Archive)
The Sunday Times reported that the UK police fears a spike in certain types of crime and the risk of civil unrest this winter, quoting a leaked national strategy paper.
The police chiefs' document cautions that "economic turmoil and financial instability" may lead to an increase in crimes, most notably shoplifting, burglary, vehicle theft, online fraud, and blackmail.
The document also stressed that more children are likely to join drug gangs, and more women may be sexually exploited.
"Prolonged and painful economic pressure could lead to greater civil unrest, similar to the 2011 London riots,” the document added.
Such factors could also contribute to police corruption, according to the document: "Greater financial vulnerability may expose some staff to a higher risk of corruption, particularly those who fall into significant debt or financial difficulties," it added.
The alarming forecast was released a day before the UK's next PM is named. It is worth noting that Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and former chancellor Rishi Sunak have both vowed to address rising energy costs.
The UK is among the top countries facing the brunt of inflation, gas prices, and now energy cuts, with approximately 60% of its companies threatening to halt operations and shut down.
