Heartless Female Tricksters Steal Jewellery From Good Samaritan

Thursday, 17 March 2016 13:28

Police have issued a warning after tricksters stole a woman’s jewellery on the roadside under the ruse of asking directions to the hospital.

The woman fell prey to an emerging trend where victims are distracted and confused by usually more than one offender, who use a number of excuses to engage them in conversation.

The woman was stopped on Portobello Road in Hill Top, West Bromwich around 3.15pm on Tuesday 8 March by two women in a blue Ford Focus.

As she gave directions, the two women got out and thanked her, putting necklaces and bracelet around her neck and wrists and hugging her, but as they did so, they unclasped her own necklace and bracelet without her knowledge.

The Focus with two men inside did a U-turn in the road and collected the two women as another man came to the victim’s aid. The car drove off at speed towards Tame Street.

The incident was captured on camera and now detectives are appealing for anyone who recognises the women to contact them.

Police Constable Hannah Meredith, from Sandwell Police, said: "These people are very cunning in the way they operate and we would urge people to be wary about anyone who is over friendly in these type of circumstances. They use sleight of hand and will check pockets without the victim knowing.

"The car, although not uncommon, does have hubcaps missing which makes it slightly distinctive and unfortunately does not have a registered keeper, so I would ask anyone with information on the car to contact us. The registration number displayed was W595 NUY."

PC Meredith can be contacted on 101 or alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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