Redditch Distraction Burglary - CCTV Image Released
Do you recognise this man?Police investigating a distraction theft at a Redditch supermarket have released an image of a man they would like to speak to.
It happened in the car park at Tesco Extra in Coldfield Drive, Oakenshaw, between around 12.15pm and 12.35pm on Wednesday 23 November.
The victim had just returned to her car with her shopping and placed her handbag on the front passenger seat when she was beckoned by a man leaning on a vehicle with a map. He asked her to help him plan a route to Birmingham and insisted on her looking at his map.
It is believed that while she was distracted, an accomplice took her debit card from her handbag which was left in the car. It was later discovered fraudulent withdrawals had been made in Redditch for a total of £350.
PC Dave Pengelly said: "These type of offenders typically target women on their own, and asking for directions is one of the techniques they will use.
"We have had several incidents at supermarkets across North Worcestershire. Shoppers are being urged to be vigilant, and to be particularly alert for people acting suspiciously around them when entering PIN numbers."
The offender who distracted the woman was white, around 5ft 10ins in height, and of medium build with short, dark hair. He was well groomed and wearing a grey suit, white shirt and black tie. He spoke with what was described as a strong Eastern European accent.
During the summer West Mercia Police announced that Operation Ashton had been set up to give a co-ordinated approach to distraction-type thefts across the force area.
Witnesses or anyone with information should call PC Pengelly on 0300 333 3000, quoting the reference 132-N-231111, or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Tuesday, 06 December 2011