Distraction thieves target Alderley estate agents

Local residents and businesses are urged to be vigilant as distraction thieves continue to operate in the area.

In recent months men and woman, who have been described as being of Eastern European appearance, have been targeting local bars, hairdressers, beauty salons, coffee shops and other businesses where they have used distraction techniques to steal iPhones.

On Friday, 7th December, the owner of an estate agents in Alderley Edge had his iPad stolen by two Eastern European men, pretending to be looking for a rental property.

At 13.45pm the first man entered the Michael J Chapman office, on the corner of Chapel Road and London Road, enquiring about rental properties.

He is described as aged between 25 and 32 years old, shabby looking with dark skin, short dark hair and brown eyes. He was dressed in loose fitting trousers, a jumper, dark jacket and wearing sports style shoes. His English was very poor and his accent was East European.

The man left saying he would bring back his brother who spoke better English.

Five minutes later he returned with another man who is described as having fairer skin, straight medium brown hair and blue eyes. He was wearing green loose fitting trousers and a black bomber style jacket. He spoke with an East European accent and engaged in conversation with the female estate agent while the other man kept wandering around the office.

She said "I explained we really didn't have anything within the criteria they were looking for and eventually they left heading up Chapel Road towards the church. I was quite intimidated by the whole experience as they both had a desperate air about them."

When Michael Chapman returned from a meeting he realised the iPad was missing from his desk and informed the police.

If you have any information about this incident or notice anything suspicious, please call Wilmslow Police on 101. Alternatively information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.