Crime in the UK

For information regarding your local police station or a detailed look at crime levels in your area, please visit the Metropolitan Police website, where you can find advice and information relating to your area by entering your postcode.

Identity and passport

• Identity theft is becoming more common in the UK. If your identity or bank details are stolen, others can illegally access your credit cards and bank accounts for use on various purchases online and in stores
• If you ever fall victim to identity or passport theft, you must report it to the Embassy Please note, if you are staying in a hotel, you must keep your passport at the hotel’s central safe
• Be careful not to carry other people’s identity paper with you, as you might risk the charge of possession of or stealing others’ identity documents This applies to all your family members and your employees with the exception of underage children
• Do not give your passport or identity card as collateral for loans no matter the situation

ATM (cash machines)

• Do not carry around large amounts of money, jewellery or precious items while on the move. Credit cards are a safer replacement.
• Immediately inform the bank if you lose your card or if it was stolen so that the bank can prevent any possible abuse. Some banks might charge you if you do not report immediately.
• Be aware of your surroundings when using an ATM and wait until your transaction is fully completed before leaving the ATM.
• Always conceal your PIN when using your card in public.

More Information

Take Five – To Stop Farud  

Identity Fraud

Car Security

• Always ensure your car is parked in a secure area and that doors and windows are closed and locked.
• Do not leave your belongings on public display as it might attract thieves. This could be anything from any bag or a coat or other random items.
• Do not leave your car documents inside your car, it is best to keep them at your home or hotel safe.

Mobile Phones

• Hide your mobile phone. Do not show it off. If you do not need it, do not use it.
• Try to avoid using your mobile phone in public places at the night. It can easily attract thieves.
• Do not tie your mobile phone around your neck or belt.
• If you are using your mobile publically, stay aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave your mobile within in easy reach of thieves.
• You can insure your mobile phone in case it is damaged, lost or stolen. Carefully read the insurance policy’s terms and conditions.

In case of arrest

The custody officer at the police station must explain your rights.

You have the right to

• Get free legal advice
• Tell someone where you are
• Have medical help if you’re feeling ill
• See a written notice telling you about your rights, e.g. regular breaks for food and to use the toilet (you can ask for a notice in your language) or an interpreter to explain the notice
• You are entitled to make one phone call, make sure you use it to call the Embassy to inform the Consular or ask the person-on-call to take your full name, the name of the police station where you are detained and the reason for the arrest so that the Embassy can take the necessary measures.

Do not talk with anybody or give any statements until you have a solicitor as any statements you make can be used against you in court.

In case you are summoned to attend court, you must attend court with the solicitor at the fixed court time or you will be sentenced in absentia and incur other charges.

If you are unable to contact the Embassy for any reason, all nationals can contact the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs office on the following emergency lines.

• 00974 - 401 110 00
• 00974 - 401 111 40
• 00974 - 401 111 04
• UK Free line: 0080 – 008 – 000 -100

Disclaimer

Please note, the Embassy has no power or influence in police or legal matters, we can only provide you with basic legal advice and notify your next of kin in cases of arrest or emergency. 

For more information on you rights