Warning re: Walk in / distraction thefts

- Tue 17th Dec 2002

Hayling area police have received a number of reports of walk in and distraction thefts in several areas of the island. The offenders are targetting local businesses, hotels and care homes.





Handbags, purses, mobile phones and wages are the main items being stolen. The items are often stolen from back rooms and areas which are out of bounds to legitimate customers.





In a number of cases two offenders have operated together whereby one will speak to the member of staff and distract his/her attention allowing the accomplice to enter storerooms / restrooms and steal.





In a number of cases where cash point cards have been stolen the victim has later received a telephone call at their place of work asking for their PIN number. The offenders will often say that they are from the police.





PIN NUMBERS SHOULD NEVER BE DISCLOSED TO ANYONE OVER THE PHONE





If you have any person(s) at your business premesis that you are suspicious of please contact the police on 0845 045 045l on on 999 if necessary.





Keep a watchful eye on all persons at all times and do not allow yourself to be distracted by anyone.





Keep all personal items somewhere safe and secure. Preferably in a locked room.





Keep all private areas locked.





Consider CCTV.

By forum user, Mat