Shoppers in Basingstoke are being urged to be on their guard following a distraction burglary at Chineham shopping centre.
On May 25 a woman was duped by burglars as she loaded her car with shopping.
At around 11am, she was approached by a foreign woman with a map claiming she needed directions to Oxford.
While the victim was distracted, a second person entered her car and stole bank cards from her handbag. Police said the cards were later used to withdraw a significant amount of money.
PC Jindy Sokhi said the gang preyed on lone female shoppers, and a similar incident had been reported in Hatch Warren.
He said: “We strongly believe that these criminals are acting as a team. The group are knowingly preying on people’s good will and helpful nature.
“If you are approached in this way, please act cautiously. Not everyone asking for directions is a criminal, and if you choose to help it is your decision to do so. However, if you do, before you help please ensure your vehicle is locked and all your valuables are on your person or locked in your vehicle out of sight.
“In the two previous incidents the offenders were successful because the vehicles were left unlocked while the owners assisted the distressed woman.”
