Mobile phone distraction thefts at Shropshire pubs and cafes
Pub and café customers in Shropshire are being warned not to leave their mobile phones on display following a series of thefts.
Police have received several reports of mobiles being stolen from tables while people are having a drink or something to eat.
In each case, customers have been distracted by two men waving newspapers in their faces. Only after the strangers have left have they discovered their phones missing.
A West Mercia Police spokesperson said today: "There have been four incidents in and around Shrewsbury town centre in the last couple of days.
"It's been the same tactic used in each case. The offenders have obviously noticed a mobile phone lying on the table and have come across with the purpose of distracting the owner and snatching the phone without being noticed.
"The suspects have waved a newspaper or something similar near the faces of the customer while one of them picks up the phone unnoticed before making a hasty exit."
The men are described as Eastern European in appearance. A similar spate of incidents were reported in December and two offenders subsequently arrested.
The police spokesperson added: "We want people to be aware that these opportunistic thefts are taking place and not to leave their phones lying on tables while attending cafes, pubs, fast-food outlets and restaurants. Keep them out of sight so they remain safe and secure."
