In busy car parks like the one at Morrisons in Aldridge, keep your wits about you and your valuables hidden away. Imagery from Apple Maps.
People are being warned to be on their guard after a distraction theft incident in the car park of Morrisons in Aldridge on Friday, 17th March 2017 in which a debit card was stolen from a car while the driver was being asked for directions, and subsequently used fraudulently.
It would be a very good idea if you have elderly or vulnerable family or friends to warn them about this.
West Midlands Police issued the following statement:
From Mari Amos (Police, Sergeant, Walsall)
An incident has been reported to us today (24th March) which occurred on 17th February 2017 at 11.30hrs at Morrisons car park, Aldridge.
A female has approached the passenger side of a parked vehicle and opened the door and leaned in to speak to the driver who was stationary at the time. The female had a large map and was asking for directions to Tamworth.
The female was petite and looked Malaysian and was with a heavier set male. The driver of the vehicle tried to help the female with some directions but half of the map was missing.
The female then left in a grey vehicle with the male. During this interaction it has since become apparent that a debit card which was in a handbag in the passenger footwell was stolen, and this card was used to withdraw cash 30 minutes later.
Enquiries are being undertaken in relation to this incident, however this distraction method has been used in this area in the past (in 2016).
The offenders were very subtle and believable as the theft was not discovered until several days after it occurred.This message is to raise your awareness of this type of method of offence.
These incidents do take place in Aldridge so please take note and always “Think Safe”.
When in your car, always a good idea to keep valuables well tucked away and don’t store your PIN with your cards.
Please, if you have any information, do speak to the cops. These people need to be caught before they do it again. If you know who they might be, or if you saw anything at all, please do contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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