The West Midlands Police are appealing to the public for help in identifying two women who may hold crucial information regarding two recent distraction thefts in Dudley. These incidents targeted vulnerable elderly victims, leading to the theft of significant amounts of money.
Incident 1: Theft at Heron Foods
The first incident occurred on 29 October 2024, shortly after 1:30 pm, at Heron Foods on Castle Street, Dudley. An elderly woman in her 80s was shopping when thieves managed to steal a quantity of cash directly from her handbag. The theft occurred after the suspects used distraction techniques to divert her attention.
Incident 2: Theft at Barclays Bank
The second incident took place on 3 December 2024, just before 2:40 pm, at Barclays Bank on High Street, Dudley. A man in his 90s fell victim to a similar tactic, with his bank card stolen during the encounter. The stolen card was then used to withdraw a large sum of money from an ATM later that day.
Suspects’ Modus Operandi
The two thefts share a common pattern, with the suspects—believed to be working together—using distraction methods to confuse or divert the victims, enabling them to steal personal items. While the specifics of the distraction techniques remain under investigation, police suspect the women may have deliberately engaged the victims in conversation or created a scene to gain access to their belongings.
Investigation Update
Despite thorough investigations, including CCTV analysis and witness interviews, the suspects have not yet been identified. The police have now released images of two women who they believe may have information crucial to solving the cases.
Public Appeal for Assistance
Police are urging anyone who recognizes the women or has information about their whereabouts to come forward. Members of the public are encouraged to contact the police via 101 or through the Live Chat feature on the West Midlands Police website. When providing information, please quote reference 20/988434/24.
A spokesperson for the West Midlands Police said:
“It’s disheartening to see vulnerable members of our community targeted in this way. We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist our ongoing investigation.”
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