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Last Updated: Wednesday, 10 September, 2003, 10:04 GMT 11:04 UK
Students 'easy prey' for criminals
Six universities in the West Midlands are to meet police to discuss ways of tackling crime against students.

Statistics show about one third of students become a victim of crime while at university.

West Midlands police say young people arriving in the region to study can have a number of high value goods such as computers, and are often seen as "easy prey" by criminals.

The meeting, to be held on Wednesday, will discuss ways of reducing crime against students attending Birmingham, Aston, UCE, Wolverhampton, Warwick and Coventry universities.

Common crimes

Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hyde, said: "These days, students have more high-value consumer goods per head than the rest of the population.

"Most of them have their own computer or laptop, mobile phone and many even have their own television, stereo and car.

"Car theft, burglary and having a purse, wallet or bag stolen continue to be the most common crimes affecting students."

Mr Hyde said the aim - together with student representatives - was to look at ways of tackling crime against students, and make the region a safer place to study.


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