A WARNING has been issued for the public to be vigilant about distraction thefts.

Several incidents were reported on Saturday, March 4 where two men engaged with women asking for directions.

While the victims were helping one man, another man is believed to have attempted to remove cards from their handbags.

Four separate incidents have been reported. The incidents took place at 11.10pm at the Lidl car park in North Street, Worthing, 12.15pm at the Lidl car park in New Road, Littlehampton, 1.10pm at Halfords car park in Rowan Way and 1.55pm on Wessex Avenue both in Bognor Regis.

Police investigator Daniel Turk said: "We have linked these four incidents so far and are appealing for anyone who may have seen the suspects or their vehicle. The suspects are described as Eastern European with foreign accents.

"We are urging the public to take sensible precautions when helping others in public places. Never leave your bag on a shopping trolley unattended, and ensure the bag is zipped up.”

If you have any information which might help please email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting 596 of 05/03.