Some Aldi and Lidl shops in the UK are being targeted by a gang of men who prey on elderly and disabled shoppers. The offences are believed to have taken place between June and October this year, according to a police statement. Law enforcement agents have enough reason to suspect five men as being a part of the gang. CCTV images of the suspects have been released to help with investigations.
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Affected shops
The alert was issued on Facebook by a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police Wigan West. The incidents that prompted the investigation took place over the past five months at the Aldi on King Street, Leigh, Tesco Extra on The Loom, Leigh, Aldi on Shuttle Street, Tyldesley and Lidl on Parr Bridge, Tyldesley. According to officers, bank cards were stolen from unsuspecting, vulnerable shoppers who were distracted by some members of the gang, Liverpool Echo reports.
The cards were used to make various contactless payments with the highest amount being £100. Thankfully, none of the victims aged between 66 and 93 years old were physically injured during the thefts. A spokesperson for the force said:
Officers have release CCTV images of five men they wish to speak to following a series of bank card thefts from elderly and disabled shoppers in Leigh and Tyldesley. The offences occurred between June and October 2022 in various shopping retail parks.
Easy targets
The elderly and disabled people have been targeted by professional thieves for years and the police want these groups of people and their loved ones to be extra vigilant.
Enquiries have been ongoing since June 2022 and anyone with information should contact officers on 0161 856 67054. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Sources used:
Liverpool Echo: Urgent warning over gang targeting elderly shoppers at Aldi and Lidl
Birmingham Mail: Aldi and Lidl shopper warning over being targeted by criminal gangs
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