Women posing as charity workers steal pensioner's Rolex watch in street scam

TWO women posing as charity workers stole a pensioner’s Rolex watch in a Christchurch street.

Police hunting the thieves, who struck on Saturday 23rd May, have released an image of the stolen watch and are urging witnesses and those who may have dashcam footage of the offence to come forward.

The victim, a man in his 70s, was standing near the bus stop opposite In-Excess in Somerford Road between 2pm and 2.30pm when he was approached by two women.

Claiming to be collecting for charity, the pair struck up a conversation with the victim and persuaded hime to sign some paperwork. They then tried to hug him while grabbing his T-shirt and arms, and his watch was stolen during the incident.

The women are described as in their 20s, with one about 5ft 3in tall and of a plump build, and the other 5ft 8ins tall and carrying a clipboard.

PC Kelly Cole said: “As part of my enquiries I am releasing an image of the stolen Rolex watch and would urge anyone who has seen it for sale locally in unusual circumstances to please get in touch.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or any motorists who were travelling in the area and may have captured any relevant dashcam footage.”

Those with information should contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 55200072890, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.