Staffordshire Police have issued an urgent warning following two distraction thefts targeting elderly people near ATMs in Tamworth and Lichfield.
On October 25, just after 11:30am, an elderly woman was followed by two men from a charity shop on Tamworth Street in Lichfield. Inside WHSmith on Bakers Lane, one man distracted her while the other stole her purse.
Five days later, on October 30 around 10:15am, a man in his 70s was targeted outside Lloyds Bank on George Street, Tamworth. The suspect attempted to trick him by pretending to drop a £10 note. Fortunately, no belongings were taken during this incident.
The thieves use classic distraction tactics, such as pretending victims have dropped money or valuables to divert their attention. They then snatch wallets or purses and quickly leave to make withdrawals using stolen cards.
Police are urging people to be cautious when using ATMs or banks. They advise keeping a close watch on personal belongings and not allowing strangers to distract you. If you notice any suspicious behaviour, report it immediately.
Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to contact Staffordshire Police on 101, quoting incident 687 from October 25. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via 1 Chat or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
