Shoppers in a stunning medieval city have been warned as brazen thieves use distraction techniques to target victims, leaving innocent pensioners out of pocket. Kent Police have warned customers in Canterbury to be extra vigilant as they carry extra cash for their Christmas shopping. 

One pensioner had money taken from his coat pocket while brazen thieves distracted him. The man, in his 70s, had withdrawn cash from a nearby bank before walking to the city centre. While shopping in Marks and Spencer, the pensioner was approached by a couple who told him he had something on the back of his jacket. He took his coat off and the couple left the scene, the man later realised the money had been taken. 

Just two days later, another pensioner in her 70s was targeted while driving her silver Fiesta. She too had recently withdrawn cash from the bank and placed it in her handbag on the passenger seat next to her. A woman caught the pensioner’s attention, claiming there was something in the road. The driver got out of her car to check as the woman left the scene, with the withdrawn cash having gone missing from the handbag.  

Jamie Nash, police constable at Kent Police, urged residents to keep cash in a secure place that’s out of sight. He added that anyone who is concerned about the thefts should consider asking a friend or family member to go with them, for extra vigilance. 

The police constable added: “’With the festive period almost upon us, shoppers may be carrying more cash than usual. It’s important to be aware of who is around you when you are out and about, and to keep money safely stashed away.

“If a stranger bumps into you, or approaches you and starts to ask questions, or behaves in an unusual manner, be alert. It may be a deliberate distraction to allow them to steal your property.”

Police investigations into the incidents are ongoing. Distraction thefts can happen in seconds, with a single or couple of offenders quickly distracting the victim and using sleight of hand to grab cash and even jewellery. While older people are more likely to be targeted, thieves are brazen and anyone could become a target while out and about.