Secrets of the Sphinx

Bad Boys of the Blitz

Documentary looking at the increase in crime in Britain, and particularly London, during the Second World War, with a black market evolving with rationing, and opportunities to make money through forgery, looting, and robbery. Looks at how criminals took advantage of the blackout and empty houses whilst the inhabitants were in the air raid shelters, and the problems caused by former policemen being conscripted into the armed forces and temporary less experienced officers taking their place, and by large numbers of deserters and men avoiding conscription, who often fell into crime and the black market in order to live. Also, the rise in prostitution. Includes interviews with former policemen,thieves and criminals of the time, including Mad Frankie Fraser, Spud Murphy, and Roy Hill.