SHOPKEEPERS are being warned after a spate of thefts in the region.
A number of shopkeepers, all of whom have been Asian, have been targeted by a gang of conmen and women recently in Preston, Blackburn and Chorley.
The group of five men and two women enter stores and pretend to buy a large amount of goods. When the shopkeeper attends to his supposed customers one of the gang then sneaks in and steals from the back-rooms.
Police believe the gang is not from the region and want to warn shopkeepers to be on their guard.
DC Steve Atherton of Preston Police said, "One shopkeeper was robbed of £8,000 in cash and jewellery. There have been four such incidents in Preston recently.
"They also pay for the goods they have brought from the shop. It is all part of the scam and a way of getting the shopkeepers attention."
The thiefs are described as being of Eastern European appearance. The men are believed to be smartly dressed. Anyone with any information is asked to call Preston Police on 01772 209265.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article