Police in Bedfordshire are warning local people to remain vigilant following a series of thefts and robberies targeting elderly victims across the county.
Offenders are using distraction techniques in public areas to steal valuable items of jewellery.
Distraction Tactics
Thieves approach victims, who are usually elderly, and begin talking to them in the street.
They place costume jewellery around the victim’s neck or wrist before removing real jewellery, distracting them by giving them money or offering a hug.
Police stated that victims often do not realise a theft has taken place until after the offenders have left.
Sixteen similar incidents have been reported across the county since the end of May, including reports in Bedford, Luton, and Dunstable.
Items of considerable value have been stolen during the distraction incidents.
Police Investigation
Detectives have launched Operation Titanforge, a targeted operation set up specifically to investigate the series.
Officers are liaising with neighbouring police forces to establish links with similar incidents outside the county.
A man and a woman, both in their 30s, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft in connection with an offence in Bedfordshire.
Both individuals have since been bailed with conditions.
Detective constable Chloe Marshall said: “We know that thefts like this cause enormous distress both directly to victims and the wider community.
“We will not tolerate this type of criminality and remain committed to doing everything we can to identify those responsible and prevent further offending.
“I would urge anyone with elderly relatives to make them aware and would encourage everyone to take sensible precautions, particularly if approached by a stranger.”
Safety Information
Anyone with information or who has been a victim of a similar incident is asked to report it online to Bedfordshire Police using reference Operation Titanforge.
Further advice on personal safety while out and about is available on the force website.
