Police issue warning over street thefts

Police in Bedfordshire are warning people to be vigilant following a series of thefts and robberies across the county by offenders using distraction techniques to steal jewellery.

The thieves will approach victims, who are usually elderly, in the street and begin talking to them. They place costume jewellery around the victim’s neck or wrist and then remove real jewellery, distracting them by hugging them or giving them money.

This is a common tactic, but not the only one perpetrators use, and often victims won’t realise the theft has taken place until after the thieves have left.

Sixteen similar incidents have been reported across the county, including Luton, Dunstable and Bedford, since the end of May with items of considerable value stolen.

Detectives have set up a specific targeted operation to investigate the thefts and are liaising with colleagues in neighbouring forces to link similar incidents.

A man and woman, both in their 30s, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft in connection to an offence in Bedfordshire. They have since been bailed with conditions.  

Detective Constable Chloe Marshall said: “We know that thefts like this cause enormous distress both directly to victims and the wider community.

“We will not tolerate this type of criminality and remain committed to doing everything we can to identify those responsible and prevent further offending.

“I would urge anyone with elderly relatives to make them aware and would encourage everyone to take sensible precautions particularly if approached by a stranger.”

Anyone with information or who has been a victim of a similar incident is asked to report it online at https://www.beds.police.uk/ro/report/ and quote Operation Titanforge.

Bedfordshire Police has advice on keeping safe while you are out and about: https://www.beds.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/personal-safety-how-to-stay-safe