Three people have been arrested following a series of distraction thefts, where elderly people were targeted at cash machines.
Six incidents were reported yesterday morning (Tuesday, 26 April) in the Mansfield and Mansfield Woodhouse areas.
On each occasion, an elderly person using a cash machine was approached from behind by a man who told them the machine was not working, before pressing buttons under the false pretence that he was trying to help.
Five of the targeted individuals went on to discover cash had been stolen, with £1,980 taken in total from the victims.
Police were called and officers soon discovered that a car linked to cash machine thefts in Herefordshire and Shropshire had been passing surveillance cameras in Nottinghamshire, heading towards the M1.
The suspect vehicle was stopped by colleagues at Derbyshire Police at Nuthall Island and its three occupants arrested.
They included two men aged 24 and 25 who were detained on suspicion of theft and fraud by false representation. A 32-year-old woman, who had been driving the Peugeot 307, was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and driving a vehicle taken without the owner’s consent.
Detective Chief Inspector Kim Binns, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We are pleased to have three suspects in custody following good police work in collaboration with our colleagues at Derbyshire Constabulary.
“We are carrying out an extensive and comprehensive investigation into the activities of these three suspects and have to also consider the possibility there may be other offences we are not yet aware of.
“If you think you may have seen any suspicious activity at cash machines in recent weeks, please contact us.
“These criminals are adept at creating distractions and so it’s important people are vigilant when using cash machines.
“Thieves will try to watch as you enter your PIN so remember to shield your number from view and keep an eye on your card at all times. If someone taps you on the shoulder or tries to speak to you, just ignore them.
“If anything about the cashpoint looks unusual – for example, criminals can use skimming devices to take your card details – do not use the machine and report it to us by calling 101.
“When you’ve left the ATM, put your card away immediately.”
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime in Nottinghamshire, you can report it to us by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.