ELDERLY people have been targeted in a number of distraction thefts have been carried out in Somerset.

In all the incidents, elderly people are followed by a man and a woman, who observe them at cashpoints to obtain their PIN numbers, and later distract them in order to steal their wallet or purse, using the stolen cards to obtain goods or cash.

The three offences are:

• An 82-year-old woman had her purse stolen in Cathedral Green, Wells, around 1pm on Wednesday March 23

• A 78-year-old man had his wallet stolen from his pocket while in a Co-op store in Glastonbury between 2.40pm and 4.20pm on Wednesday March 23

• An 80-year-old woman had her bank cards stolen while shopping at Clarks Village in Street between 3.45pm and 4pm on Wednesday March 23

Investigator Tony Salisbury said: “This was a series of incidents in which a man and woman worked together to distract and steal from vulnerable and elderly victims.

“We know of similar incidents elsewhere in the country and it’s entirely possible the two offenders are not from our area.

“We’ve obtained a CCTV image of a man we’d like to speak to about the offences so I’d ask anyone who recognises him to come forward.

“The woman we’re trying to trace is described as dark skinned, slim build, aged around 30, of medium build with long black hair tied back in a ponytail. She was smartly dressed and spoke in a mixture of French/English.

“Distraction thefts can consist of the offender pointing out a fault with a vehicle or asking for directions, often to a nearby hospital or another town. Sometimes a map is produced to further distract the victim.

“Quite often people don’t realise they’ve had their cards stolen and it’s not until they next come to use the bank card that the theft comes to light. Sometimes banks notify victims directly when they notice unusual or irregular transactions.

“We’re asking people to be vigilant to this crime type and help elderly relatives understand how these thieves are operating.”

If you recognise the man in the CCTV image,  call 101 and quote reference 5216062760.

Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers and give information anonymously on 0800 55511 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org

Advice

• Shield your hand when you’re typing in your PIN number when paying for goods in shops or at cashpoints

• Always be aware of people around you in stores, especially if someone is standing close-by when you are paying for goods

• Be alert to any distractions when you’re at your vehicle, especially when you’ve left the vehicle unlocked

• Consider where you are putting your valuables and personal possessions – don’t leave your purse or wallet unattended in your car at any time

• Keep a close eye on your bank accounts to check for irregular or unusual transactions – if you spot anything out of the ordinary, call your bank/building society or credit card company immediately