Nearly £5,000 was transacted after a suspected distraction theft outside a Morrisons branch.

A victim had over £4,700 transacted from her card after being approached by a woman with a large map asking for directions outside Morrisons, Borehamwood, on August 24 at 10am.

Police believe the victim had their card stolen during this encounter, as the suspects travelled to Edgware where they purchased a bracelet costing over £1,000 on her card from Cash Converters.

The card was then used for several transactions in various locations over Edgware and Luton. The transactions totalled over £4,700.

Officers have now released an image of a man who they would like to speak to, as it is believed that he was in the area at the time of the incident and may be able to assist the investigation.

Borehamwood Times:

Police would like to speak to this man to assist investigations. (Photo: Hertfordshire Constabulary)

PCSO Natalie Lancaster, from the Borehamwood Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “We are very keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the offence. We believe that there were three offenders working together for this.

“If you recall seeing anyone behaving suspiciously or believe that you may have seen the incident taking place, please get in touch. Alternatively, if you recognise the distinctive bracelet, or believe that you may have come across it, please contact us.

“This is a common and well-rehearsed method of distraction used to steal, so we would like to take this opportunity to ask you to be aware of strangers who approach you asking for help or directions. If you are approached by a stranger, make sure you’re aware of your personal belongings.”

You can report information online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an via online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 41/78198/19.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report information online at crimestoppers-uk.org.