Appeal for potential victims of distraction thefts at cash machines to come forward

Police officers investigating a series of distraction thefts at cash machines are appealing for further potential victims to come forward.

Incidents have been reported in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire where elderly people about to take their money from a cash machine have been approached by a man who told them the machine was broken before covering the screen with a newspaper and stealing the cash.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident. He has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police officers have received reports of incidents occurring in Ilkeston, Derby and Ashbourne but are keen to speak to anyone who may have been a victim of a similar offence, as well as anyone with any information.

Anyone who can help with the investigation is being asked to use any of the following contact methods, quoting the reference 24*374053.

• Website – There are crime reporting tools at www.derbyshire.police.uk/
• Facebook – send a private message to the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page
• X (Twitter) – direct message the contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Phone – call the non-emergency number 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the CrimeStoppers website.