Londoners have been warned about a new Tik Tok challenge which has left people with their front doors off the hinges and properties vulnerable to robbery.
The trend is labelled the ‘Heartbeat Challenge’ and involves, mostly children, kicking random peoples doors in time to music and then running off.
Police have warned those participating in the challenge that they might be liable to criminal damage charges if they are caught.
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One elderly couple in Hemel Hempstead had their front door damaged and they had to pay a repair bill due to people kicking their door whilst filming the challenge.
In another case, in the same area, police responded to a door being kicked open and the property being left insecure when the resident was out.
The videos are acted out to the sound of singer Keisha’s song- Die Young, and multiple youths can often be seen booting doors in time to the beat.
Speaking about the craze, PCSO Sarah Rex from Herefordshire Police said: “It’s not just a bit of fun – it is frightening, anti-social and, in some cases, illegal.
(Image: TikTok)
“We will be investigating each report and looking to identify those involved before taking appropriate action.
“We want our young people to enjoy their half term break, but their actions should not be at the expense of innocent members of the public.
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“We are working with local secondary schools to share this message but given that it is currently half term, I would urge parents and carers to have a direct conversation with their children and make them consider the victims of their behaviour.
“Please ask them how they would feel if it was their Nan or Grandad who had been targeted.”
If you are a victim of the Heartbeat challenge, you can call 101 or 99 if it is an emergency.
Have you been a victim of the Heartbeat Challenge? Contact [email protected]
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