Pokemon Go: Police called 14 times over 'disturbances' caused by game sensation

Figures released by West Midlands Police following a Freedom of Information request show that the force was called out on average more than twice a day in July by people concerned about those playing the game.

Three incidents attended by officers have been recorded as crime. One involved a robbery, another a theft and there was also an assault relating to the playing of the game. In addition there were six incidents concerning traffic and traffic obstructions, two involving damage to property, one where sexual favours were allegedly offered, one concerning a missing person and one where the police were called to reports of someone playing Pokemon Go.

All 14 incidents were recorded between July 1 and July 26. West Midlands Police declined to comment on the figures. But James Spreckley, of Midlands law firm, Lodders, warned players could find themselves breaking trespass laws. He said: "Pokémon Go Players have hit streets, shops, parks, libraries and churches among many other public places, aiming to catch characters, not realising that in their quest, they could well be venturing onto private land and in turn be liable for an accidental trespass."

Some businesses are using the game to their advantage by dropping "lures" at their business, items used to attract Pokemon, which in turn attracts crowds of people to their business. Mr Spreckley added: "For farmers and landowners the situation is likely to be very different with a risk for both the landowner and the trespasser should someone venture onto their land."

Council chiefs in Dudley have asked Pokemon Go's developers Niantic Labs to remove the town's Priory Ruins from the game. The site is a designated PokeStop – an area where players congregate to collect items needed in the game. But council bosses said residents had complained about noise and damage to the iconic site.