article_snippet.sent: Gangs of up to six follow wealthy shoppers in the West End before stealing to six follow wealthy shoppers in the West End cash and belongings, according to the plain-clothes officers tasked with reducing theft in the area.
article_snippet.sent: London's busy shopping areas prove a big draw for gangs of pickpockets from around the world including Romania, Algeria and Bulgaria, reports Andy Jones on Vice.
article_snippet.sent: Plain clothes police are attempting to drive down pickpocket crimes in busy shopping areas like Oxford Street, pictured .
article_snippet.sent: He said many arrive in Britain on a six-month VISA before heading off on a 'European tour' and police are constantly monitoring CCTV to keep tabs on  gangs and their recruits.
article_snippet.sent: Organised international gangs of thieves will often spend a short time operating in London before flying to the likes of Madrid, Barcelona and Milan for the same purpose - all as part of moves to avoid detection.
article_snippet.sent: Big city theft is now organised, international crime with bosses and a hierarchy,' Big city theft is now organised, international crime with bosses and a hierarchy added.
highlights_snippet.sent: Gangs of South Americans target shoppers in West End, police have said .
  