TWENTY minutes was all it took for £2,000 to be withdrawn from a bank account after a shopper had their cash card stolen in the Waitrose car park in Alcester.
The incident happened at 2.30pm a week last Wednesday (November 11) when the victim returned to their car from the supermarket.
They were approached by a man, described as white, mid 30s, bald, heavy set with chubby cheeks who said there were some wires hanging from the bottom of the shopper’s car.
The man, who spoke with a Polish accent, suggested they lift the bonnet and take a look.
At some point during this interaction, the cash card was stolen from the car, and within 20 minutes the money had been stolen from the shopper’s account.
Police are appealing for people to be alert and to keep bags containing their possessions shut.
Sgt Bob Shaw said: “Always keep personal property, such as handbags and purses, within sight and never leave them on car seats even if it’s just for a few moments.
“When using a cash machine or entering your PIN in a shop always cover the number, especially if you are aware someone is standing close by.
“Thieves can often try to distract you with what appears to be a very plausible stories and I would urge people to be vigilant and take a second to think about why someone is approaching you.
“I would also encourage the community to look out for elderly and vulnerable people in particular and if you do witness anything suspicious then please call 101.”
Anyone with any information on this latest incident should contact police on 101.
n With Christmas just over a month away, new research from Nationwide Building Society reveals our streets are a pickpocketing paradise, with thieves stealing £190 worth of valuables each time they strike.
Together with expert pickpocket and entertainer Lee Thompson they have published a video showing the public how easy it is to pick a pocket.
To watch it, click http://youtu.be/Ner6-jghBX4
