Police issue urgent warning to all bank account customers

Police have issued an urgent warning to bank account customers after a spate of recent 'distraction' thefts after withdrawing money from cash machines.

Residents in Warrington have been told to 'be vigilant' by Cheshire Constabulary after numerous reports of the targeted thefts in the town.

The incidents have been reported at various banks and building societies. Officers have heard reports that these incidents have involved members of the public who have withdrawn large amounts of cash and have been watched by thieves and followed.

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One example of a distraction technique used recently included victims being approached by pairs of suspects, with one engaging them in conversation and the other taking their money from open bags or pockets.

Officers have also heard that victims have been approached and told they had something on their clothing and while they have been searching for it, their money has been taken.

Members of the public have been urged to carry wallets and purses in a zipped up bag, avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash unless absolutely necessary and to be aware of people around them.

Police Constable Graham Davies, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said: “As we move into the latter half of the years and Christmas being not too far away, many of us may be withdrawing larger amounts of cash, so I'd urge anyone planning to do so to please remember to be vigilant and take care.

“This really can happen to anyone, anywhere, and thieves can have very sophisticated ways of distracting you before stealing your belongings. Some people may not even realise it has happened to them until