ELDERLY shoppers are being targeted by sophisticated criminals, who have stolen thousands of pounds from their vulnerable victims.
People are being warned to be on their guard after a sharp rise in handbag and elaborate ‘distraction’ type thefts in the area.
The thieves have targeted mostly elderly supermarket shoppers in the past month, stealing purses and wallets from shopping trolleys.
In recent weeks, however, Cheshire police have been alerted to more sophisticated methods being adopted by criminals.
Four elderly people fell victim to thieves using a tactic whereby they look over a person’s shoulders while they are using a chip and pin device or a cash machine.
They then approach their prey in the supermarket or outside in the car park and engage them in conversation, often asking for change or directions.
While the victim is distracted, the criminals sneak their hand into their bag or purse and steal their banks cards.
Western area superintendent Phil Jones said: “What is particularly concerning for police is the fact that the thieves appear to target older, more vulnerable shoppers when committing their crimes.
“We are now warning the public to be vigilant and to protect themselves against this type of crime by following simple crime prevention steps.
“Similarly, we would remind people to always check their bank statements for any inaccuracies or discrepancies, as credit card fraud may not be immediately apparent to the victim.”
In late June, an 86-year-old Chester man had used a chip and pin device at Morrisons in Saltney.
While in the car park, he was approached by a man who asked him for directions and produced a map.
The elderly victim later discovered his bank cards had been stolen and money had been taken from his account.
On two occasions in Chester last month, users of an ATM on St Werburgh Street reported that they were approached by foreign nationals who attempted to ‘jostle’ them while using the cash machine.
The individuals were concerned about the incident and reported it to police.
Last week, an elderly lady was shopping in Sainsbury’s in Ellesmere Port when she realised her bankcards had been stolen from her purse.
The thieves went on a £1,000 spree with the victim’s credit cards, spending hundreds of pounds in high street stores.
Supt Jones added: “We are exploring a number of lines of inquiry, including the analysis of CCTV captured at the scene of the crimes reported.
“We urge anyone with any information that may assist this enquiry to come forward and contact us.
“We will leave no stone unturned until we find those responsible and hold them to account for the upset and distress they have caused these elderly members of our community.”
To contact Cheshire Police, call 0845 458 000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Cheshire Police are urging people to follow their advice to protect themselves against becoming a victim of supermarket scams:
Do not leave your handbag hung over the shopping trolley or unattended at any time.
Make sure your bag has a secure zip fastening and for added security, secure your purse inside a zipped pocket inside the bag to help protect against thieves reaching inside your bag or purse to search for valuables.
l If you are approached by a stranger in unusual circumstances in or around a supermarket, do not engage with them, particularly if they ask for directions or change. Be firm with them, walk away, and report any suspicious activity to the police.
l When using a chip and pin device or ATM, always shield your number with your hand. Avoid using cash machines that appear to have been tampered with, or where groups of people are hanging around.