SHOPPERS are being urged to be vigilant after a number of people were targeted by thieves in supermarket car parks across Devon and Cornwall.

While the victims, in some cases elderly women, have been shopping or used a cash point, a suspect has watched them enter their PIN number.

When the victims returned to their vehicles, they have been approached by someone asking for directions.

While the victim is being distracted, someone else has got into their vehicle and stolen their bank cards.

Within a very short space of time, multiple transactions are attempted at post offices and banks, withdrawing as much money as possible, often several thousands of pounds.

One of the most recent incidents reported to police happened in Cullompton on Tuesday, March 1.

At some time between 2.15pm and 2.45pm, a man approached a 59-yearold woman for directions in the Aldi supermarket car park in Exeter Road.

While distracted, another man took her bank cards from a handbag on the driver’s seat.

One of the men is believed to have watched the woman enter her PIN number in the supermarket moments before.

Both men are believed to be around 35 and of Eastern European origin.

One man is described as being around 5ft 4ins, of average build with short mousey brown hair and some facial stubble.

The other man is described as being around 6ft 1ins tall, of slim build with a shaved head and facial stubble.

He was wearing a blue jacket and blue jeans.

Since January 27, 15 distraction thefts have been reported across Devon and Cornwall including in Crediton or Cullompton.

Inspector Jane Alford-Mole, said: “We are encouraging shoppers, to be vigilant when using their PIN numbers in supermarkets.

“Anyone who falls victim to an incident like this is asked to report it to police with as much detail as possible about the suspects.

“Including the vehicle they used and the registration number.

“Victims are also advised to contact their bank immediately to cancel their cards.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or email 101@ devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference CR/013907/16.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.