Increase in thieves targeting blue badge holders

Spelthorne Police have warned of rising numbers of distraction thefts

There has been an increase in distraction thefts targeting blue badge holders in Ashford, said Spelthorne Police.

Authorities said fraudsters told victims they needed to register their disabled parking badge via a cash machine with various bank cards.

When they have their back turned at the machine, the fraudsters take the bank card and flee the scene.

"Anyone can be caught out by distraction thefts, they are often quick, seamless and go unnoticed," said a police spokesperson.

The most recent distraction thefts took place at Tesco, in Staines Road West, Ashford, said police.

Officers described the suspect as male with a tanned complexion, 5'4" tall, with an average build. He had black slicked back hair and was wearing a blue surgical mask and a blue tracksuit top, police said.