Police issue warning after spate of distraction thefts

Police are warning people to be on their guard following a spate of distraction thefts.

Over the past few weeks there has been a number of mobile phone thefts, particularly from tables in local bars and restaurants.

Offenders are distracting victims then placing leaflets or bags over the phones. They then attempted to sell various items before leaving and picking the phones up with the items they placed on top.

Wilmslow Police have dealt with two incidents in the last three days. The first was in an Alderley Edge restaurant with a second at a shop at Summerfield Village, Wilmslow. On both occasions the victims have been distracted by both male and female offenders who are working in pairs in order to take mobile phones.

Two incidents also occurred in wine bars in Knutsford last week, which involved foreign nationals distracting diners and stealing their mobile phones.

PC Jo Hooper said "We are asking members of the public to please be vigilant whilst out in cafes and bar to this type of crime, and please do not leave mobile phones or any other valuables in view unnecessarily.

"Two offenders have already been arrested and charged in relation to theft of this nature, but others may still be using a similar distraction method in order to steal.

"We are also making local businesses aware and if you notice anything suspicious, please call us on 101"

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Comments

Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.

Lisa Reeves
Monday 26th March 2012 at 12:51 pm
There have now been four incidents of iPhone thefts in Knutsford.

Officers are providing a high visibility presence to deter thieves and also a plain clothed presence to try and catch them in the act.

Inspector Griffiths said: "We are doing everything we can to try and apprehend the offenders who appear to work in twos and are described as eastern European men and women.

"While these people remain at large, we would advise that you keep your iPhone out of sight and to be alert to strangers coming to your table trying to engage you in conversation. Please don′t leave your phone on the table, keep it in your pocket or your bag to avoid becoming their next victim."