ELDERLY people across the Forest are reminded to be on their guard in the run-up to Christmas of those committing distraction thefts.

An increasing number of incidents have been reported to Gloucestershire Police of offenders engaging and distracting shoppers, often in supermarket car parks, and then stealing valuables including handbags, purses and wallets.

In many cases the thieves have previously watched people enter PIN numbers in the store or at a cash point before distracting them in the car park. They then immediately use that bank card across multiple locations to get cash and buy goods, usually before the victim has even noticed their card is missing.

The offences happen throughout the week with most taking place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. They often occur in the car park because offenders know there is less chance of being caught on CCTV in the car park. The thieves’ prime target is female, usually over the age of 60 and shopping alone. However, it’s not just women – men are targeted too.

Kim Mowday, crime reduction advisor for Gloucestershire Constabulary, said: “We are very conscious of these types of crime and we are in contact with all supermarkets in the county asking for assistance in the prevention of these thefts.

“If staff and customers can be mindful about this type of crime we can make it harder for the offenders. Be cautious at all times when approached by a seemingly kind stranger attempting to distract you from your property or possessions – always be aware of your surroundings and don’t let your guard down in public places. 

“If you feel vulnerable simply say you can’t help. If you are approached please inform the supermarket customer services or security staff. Let them know if these people are still in the car park and give staff any details of the vehicle they may be using or any other information that might help to identify them.

“It’s important that we stop their activities and, where possible, police can speak to them and take any necessary action to prevent these horrible occurrences happening to the residents of Gloucestershire.”

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Reported thieving tactics include:

•Holding a map and asking for directions – usually to a hospital.

•Offering to help fix a wiring problem on a car.

•Deliberately bumping into people while pick-pocketing wallets and purses.

•Saying they’ve lost a puppy and asking the victim to help look for it.

•Standing very close behind victims when they key in their pin number at the till and using the excuse that they are trying to reach for a carrier bag.