Steaming (crime)

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In UK slang, steaming is a robbery performed on train or bus passengers by a gang or large group and often involving some level of violence.[1][2] It is often used interchangeably with mugging, referring to a specific subcategory of that crime. Several cases have been reported on the London Underground and other city public transport systems although not exclusively localised to them. It may also be applied to other theft such as shoplifting, involving a large group employing distraction tactics, intimidation or actual violence against staff.[3] In general, the term refers to the operation in a large group and the use of intimidation and violence to commit theft.

See also[edit]


  1. ^ "Steaming gang targets teenagers". BBC News. 7 September 2007. Retrieved 11 September 2010. 
  2. ^ Cheston, Paul"On CCTV, the train steaming gang set out on a mission of menace" Evening Standard, 4 December 2008
  3. ^ Bennetto, Jason"'Steamers' leap counters to rob London banks" The Independent, 4 February 1996