Police urge public to be vigilant following distraction thefts in Warrington

Police in Warrington are reminding residents to remain vigilant following recent reports of distraction thefts in the area.

Over the past few weeks, police in Warrington have received several reports of distraction theft at banks and building societies in the town. 

Officers have heard reports that these incidents have involved members of the public who have withdrawn large amounts of cash and have, unbeknownst to them, been observed by thieves and followed.

An example of one of the distraction techniques used recently included victims being approached by pairs of suspects, with one engaging them in conversation and the other taking their money from open bags or pockets.

Officers have also heard that victims have been approached and told they had something on their clothing that should not be there, and while they have been searching for it, their money has, again, been taken.

Police are keen to remind the public to be vigilant and take steps to keep them safe from thieves.

Police Constable Graham Davies, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said:

“As we move into the latter half of the years and Christmas being not too far away, many of us may be withdrawing larger amounts of cash, so I'd urge anyone planning to do so to please remember to be vigilant and take care.

“This really can happen to anyone, anywhere, and thieves can have very sophisticated ways of distracting you before stealing your belongings. Some people may not even realise it has happened to them until much later.

"If you are approached by anyone you do not know, you feel like you are being followed or simply if you feel you have been the victim of a distraction theft, report it straight to a neighbourhood officer or contact us on 101."

There are a few simple precautions residents can take to deter opportunistic thieves:

• Carry your purse in a zipped-up bag, and always keep the bag close to you and where you can see it
• Never leave your bag in a shopping trolley or basket
• Avoid withdrawing large amounts of money if not necessary
• Be aware of people around you, following you, or getting too close to your person and your belongings

Anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously around others or has any information about incidents of this nature is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101. 

Information can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.