Phone Stolen In Bromsgrove Distraction Theft

Police are warning people to be vigilant after a man's phone was stolen in a distraction type theft in Bromsgrove.

The victim, a man in his 20s, was having lunch with his family at the Slug and Lettuce pub in the High Street when he was approached by two men, believed to be Eastern Europeans.

One put a newspaper in front of the victim and asked him if he wanted to buy it.

The victim declined but became suspicious when the men left in a hurry and realised his IPhone 4, worth £400, had been taken from off the table.

He gave chase but they ran up the High Street towards The Strand area, where they separated and went in different directions.

It happened on Saturday 26th November at around 1.20pm.

PC Liz Rutter of West Mercia Police said: "We want people to be aware of this scam, especially in the approach to Christmas. The offenders try to disorientate victims while stealing their possessions, and we urge people to keep phones and other valuables such as wallets or purses in their pocket or in a securely fastened handbag."

In June West Mercia Police set up Operation Ashton to give a co-ordinated approach to distraction thefts happening across the force area.

The offenders are usually described as Eastern European men and women, and often equipped with maps or newspapers which they use to distract people and cover valuables which they then steal. 

Issued: Thursday, 08 December 2011

Witnesses or anyone with information to the Bromsgrove incident are asked to contact PC Rutter on 0300 333 3000 quoting incident 319-s-261111 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.