Why moped crime is rising - and how you can avoid being a victim

London has seen more than 22,000 moped-related crimes in the last year - more than double the number in the previous year.

In recent days, comedian Michael McIntyre was robbed of his Rolex watch by hammer-wielding robbers on bikes in northwest London.

On 5 June, a moped gang armed with machete-type knives raided a jewellers shop in London's Regent Street.

A 14-year-old boy has also been charged in connection with seven moped robberies in London.

But what's behind the moped crime wave and what can be done about it?

Police powers

Theresa May has said she is to give police greater protection against prosecution when chasing suspects if they are hurt during the pursuit.

Laws are to be amended to recognise police drivers' high level of training and to make the law clear that a suspect who decides to drive at high speed and recklessly is responsible for any danger they may put themselves in - not the police.

This will also eliminate the perception that officers cannot chase riders who are not wearing helmets.

How are the police responding to the surge in moped-related crime?

In London, the Met has set up a specialist moped crime unit, Operation Venice, which the force says has reduced moped-enabled crime in the capital.

The unit uses slimmer-framed, more manoeuvrable motorbikes that are easier to navigate through narrow streets.

Officers have also started carrying DNA spray that can be used to tag and then trace escaping suspects.

What has caused the increased use of mopeds in crimes?

Many crimes involve snatching people's bags and mobiles as they walk down the street.

Riding past someone unaware and grabbing their possessions is easy to do, and the mopeds offer a quick getaway as they can weave through heavy traffic.

In a recent interview, one moped criminal said it was easy to grab phones because victims are constantly looking downwards at their screen, meaning they are distracted from what's going on around them.

People carrying more expensive and bigger smartphones has also fuelled the increase in moped crime, police say.

How you can protect yourself from moped-enabled crime?

The Met says people should look out for anyone on a bike or moped. They should also avoid texting while walking as they won't notice what's going on around them. Standing away from the roadside when using a phone is also recommended.