Be vigilant when shopping, say Hampshire Police, after four people fell victim to a distraction technique. While shopping in supermarkets in Winchester and Totton four people have reported being approached by a man who picked up money from the floor – on most occasions it was a £20 note – and then attempted to give it to the victim, claiming that they have dropped it.
On all occassions the victims declined the money.
On the four occasions, two at Tesco, Winnall, one at Sainsburys, Winchester and one at Morrisons, Totton, the offender has managed to distract the victim to the point of being able to take their bank card.
Fraudulent transactions have then occurred with large amounts of cash being withdrawn.
All four victims were aged over 60.
PC Carolyn Bulpit, said: “It appears that on each occasion the offender has some how managed to obtain the PIN of the stolen cards, possibly by watching the victims at the checkouts before distracting them and taking their cards.
“I would advise shoppers to always cover their PIN completely when entering it and to place their bank cards in a secure location, preferably inside a wallet or purse which is then zipped or fastened and placed inside another bag or zipped pocket.
“If anyone is approached by someone using a similar technique do not engage in conversation with them or allow them to get close to your personal belonginings. Please ensure you stay vigilant and report any suspicous behaviour to the police immediately.”
Officers have descriptions of the men they would like to speak to:
The man at Tesco, Winnall on November 18 is described as:
– Of a continental origin, possibly Spanish or Italian
– Aged in his mid 40s
– Around 5ft 8ins
– Dark hair which was slightly balding
– Wearing an open neck white shirt, black trousers and a black top
The man at Sainsburys, Winchester on November 18 is described as:
– White
– Around 5ft 5ins
– Aged in his 50s
– Wearing a dark knee length trench coat
– He possibly spoke with a foreign accent
The man at Tesco, Winnal on November 16 is described as:
– White
– Around 5ft 1ins
– White / grey hair
– Wearing a long Khaki coloured coat which was calf or ankle length, grey trousers, and a pale blue head scarf
The man at Morrisons, Totton on November 16 is described as:
– White
– Stocky build
– Wearing dark blue clothing
– Cropped hair
– He spoke with an Eastern European accent.
