A spate of muggings in cities worldwide has seen people robbed of their luxury coats. In recent weeks, people in London and Washington DC have had their coats stolen at knifepoint. One man in the UK was slashed across his face as thieves made off with his jacket. Criminals are targeting coats that cost as much as $2,200. Thieves are also breaking into people's vehicles to steal the brand items. A criminologist at Birmingham City University warned that the muggings were the start of a new "luxury crime trend". He said the thefts were "worrying".

The criminologist warned those with expensive, branded coats to be careful. He said: "Be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. You have to be vigilant for opportunists who might try to steal them." He added that thieves are changing their focus. They once stole watches, which they sold for thousands of dollars. A London Transport spokesperson said the muggings were "a real concern". She said they have a huge impact on the safety of young people. She added that the crimes were "very concerning, intimidating and frightening".