A group distracts victims after they withdraw money to steal from pockets. Braintree and Chelmsford incidents reported.
The group includes one woman and several men. One event occurred in Braintree on December 12. The victim was an 80-year-old man at George Yard who had just gotten cash from the bank.
A woman with a buggy engaged the man in conversation, claiming mustard was on his jacket. Two men approached with wet wipes, offering assistance. While helping, someone stole an envelope full of his money. The men headed toward Bank Street, and the woman went to Sandpit Lane.
A similar incident happened in Chelmsford at High Chelmer Shopping Centre. In this case, the victim was a man in his 60s and had taken cash from a bank. A woman spilled hot chocolate on his back while two men offered to clean his jacket and stole his cash.
Police are advising people to be cautious, as the group spills items on clothes as a distraction. They might also claim you have a pin in your tire to divert your attention. This is when the group attempts to steal from you.
Police advise being aware of your surroundings. Hold your belongings securely and always keep them in sight. Exercise caution if strangers approach you. Trust your instincts and leave if a situation feels wrong. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.