Police are warning shoppers to be on the lookout in Derbyshire and the Peak District over Christmas, particularly when out and about Christmas shopping. Police have commented that pickpockets and bag dippers are following their victims around city centres. In
October last year, there were 53 incidents in the city centre, with a
further 53 in November, 59 in December and 52 in January. This
year, officers have already had reports from victims who have had their
purses stolen and later noticed cash had been withdrawn by thieves.
Sergeant Dave Simmonds, of Derby
police's city centre beat team, said "It is certainly a cause for
concern. There seems to be quite a few thieves operating in the city
centre who will watch people before stealing from them. They
will watch people in shops and see where they put their purse after
making a purchase. They will then find a way of jostling up close to
that person before trying to steal items from the bag. Some
of them have watched shoppers while they type pin numbers into cash
machines before stealing their purse and withdrawing money before that
person has had time to report the crime."
"We have noticed an increase in and around the lunchtime and early-afternoon period," Sgt Simmonds said. "Some
people have had items stolen while they are trying shoes on in shops so
we are asking them to be extra vigilant, especially in the run-up to
Christmas, a time when there are increasing numbers of people in the
city centre." Shoppers
are also being urged to cover the keypad when entering pin numbers at
cash machines and that pin numbers should be kept separate from cash or
credit cards.
Anyone who witnesses a theft should call police on 0845 123 3333, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. | 