Warning over spate of ‘car bump’ thefts

Monday, 20 March 2017 16:00

Police are warning drivers to be on their guard following a spate of thefts and robberies where elderly woman have been targeted at the wheel.　

Over the past few weeks, a number of incidents have been reported in Leeds, Bradford and Kirklees.　

The suspects have followed the victim in their car and bumped them at low speed with their vehicle.

When both cars stop, they tell the victim their brake lights are not working and get them to leave their car to check. While the victim is distracted they steal their handbags and cash from the car and make off.　

The victims have all been women in their seventies and eighties.

Two men, aged 33 and 38, from Leeds, were arrested last week in connection with the investigation and were charged with robbery and theft in relation to two incidents.　

It is thought the tactic may still be being used by other offenders.

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