Officers in North Dorset are appealing for witnesses and warning the public to remain vigilant following a spate of distraction thefts.
There have been three incidents since January 2016 where elderly female shoppers have been targeted by a group of offenders.
One of the offenders usually follows a shopper around the supermarket and then observes the victim type their PIN number into the card machine at the checkouts.
After the victim places her handbag in her car, she is then approached by an offender who distracts her by asking for directions. An accomplice then steals a purse from the handbag in the open car and immediately uses it to withdraw cash from a cash machine.
The offenders are described as being smartly dressed with an Eastern European accent.
The incidents took place at around 5.30pm on 30 January 2016 at Waitrose, Chantry Fields, Gillingham, 3pm on 5 February at Tesco on Christy’s Lane, Shaftesbury and at around 7pm on 9 February at Tesco, Stour Park, Blandford.
North Dorset Neighbourhood Inspector Rob Chalkley, said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed these incidents or has been approached in this manner to contact police on 101.
“I would also urge the public to remain vigilant and always ensure you keep your PIN number hidden when paying for something or using a cash machine.”
Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 55160021549. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.