A CCTV has been released by the police after a distraction theft in Warrington was featured on Crimewatch. The incident took place at a bank on Sankey Street where a man had withdrawn £3,000 and was taking it to deposit at a different bank.
The victim noticed a woman in a red coat and a man in a flat cap watching him as he made his way to the bank. The woman engaged him in conversation, causing a distraction, and the man in the flat cap stole the money from the victim’s envelope while his back was turned.
The thieves were captured on CCTV running away and changing their clothes as they made their escape. The victim was left devastated by the theft and has changed his banking habits as a result. He believes that this type of crime is on the rise and wants to raise awareness about it.
The victim shared his experience on Crimewatch, expressing his shock and devastation at losing the money he had saved up for traveling. The impact of the theft caused him to have a panic attack and changed his outlook on helping others.
PC Graham Davies, who responded to the emergency call, described the crime as well planned and carried out with military precision. He urged people to be cautious when strangers engage them in conversation at banks or ATMs.
Cheshire Police are still investigating the incident and have not made any arrests yet. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police. NatWest expressed their support for the victim and will assist the police in their investigation.
The Crimewatch feature can be viewed online, and the police are working to share the video footage in hopes of catching the thieves. The incident serves as a reminder to the public to be vigilant and cautious when handling money in public places.
