(MENAFN) The Russian Embassy in London has cautioned travelers about increasing crime in the UK capital, attributing the rise to economic struggles and the ongoing migration crisis.

Citing data from local police, the embassy noted that crime rates in London have steadily climbed since Covid-19 restrictions were lifted. Theft, in particular, surged by nearly 40% over the past three years, reaching the end of 2024.

“With the ongoing ‘cost of living crisis’ and a significant influx of migrants, the UK is facing a sharp increase in street crimes, ranging from personal theft to knife and acid attacks, which have become more frequent in recent years,” the embassy stated on Friday.

Officials warned that such attacks can result in severe injuries or even fatalities, adding that cell phone theft is especially prevalent in tourist-heavy areas of central London.

According to the Metropolitan Police Service’s Crime Dashboard, theft has risen across all 32 boroughs. In 2024 alone, authorities recorded 330,989 cases of theft—up from 282,074 in 2023 and 242,698 in 2022.

Meanwhile, the UK continues to face economic hardships and declining living standards. A recent report from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) described Britain as neither a “high-wage” nor a “high-welfare” nation, leaving millions struggling with low incomes and inadequate support.

Illegal migration has also been a longstanding issue, with multiple British prime ministers pledging reforms. A study by Thames Water found that more than half of illegal migrants entering the country settle in London.

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