Kumasi, Dec 21, GNA - The Ashanti Regional Police Administration has cautioned the general public, particularly shoppers to be security conscious during their shopping for the yuletide. They should concentrate on their shopping and leave for their homes if they have nothing special or important doing to avoid being followed by pick pockets.

A release issued by the Public Affairs Office of the police in Kumasi and signed by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Jordan Quaye, asked the public not to put all the money they carry at one place but spread them to avoid the risk of losing all if picked. The release cautioned people who carry large sums of money in high denominations for shopping not to fidget or feel nervous but be confident and well composed so that pick pockets are not aroused by their suspicious composure.

It asked people to avoid scenes where magic displays take place, preaching, areas where drastic reduction sales are taking place, soothsayers, strange callers at busy places and also to avoid receiving calls or making calls at busy shopping centres and lorry parks. The release reminded the public that mobile phones, particularly attract pick pockets and therefore should keep them in the pockets of dresses, skirts and trousers that are tight and fitting to the flesh. This would enable mobile owners to feel it easily when touched so they can raise the alarm.

The release asked the public to avoid hissing calls at busy shopping centres since they distract attention.