Guelph Police Service is investigating a distraction-type theft that occurred late last week.
On June 12 at roughly 12:30 p.m., a woman and a man were leaving a grocery store together on Silvercreek Parkway North. The pair were approached by a male and female who asked for directions to a church.
As they spoke, the woman moved closer to the victim and was able to remove her gold necklace without her noticing.
The woman involved is described as possibly Arabic, roughly 5′ 5″ tall with a heavy build, wearing a hijab and printed clothing.
The man is described as possibly Arabic, roughly 6’0″ and wearing a lined, collared shirt.
The pair left the scene in a vehicle, and the duo is now being investigated by police.
Officials are warning tehy have seen an increase in these types of thefts.
“Offenders may appear friendly, well‑spoken, or apologetic, and often try to keep the interaction moving quickly to prevent the victim from reacting,” police said. “Offenders target moments when attention is divided such as: In grocery store or mall parking lots, on sidewalks or near store entrances, while entering or exiting vehicles, when carrying groceries or other items.”
Anyone with information about Friday’s incident is asked to call Constable Dallas Baker at 519-824-1212, ext. 7217, email dbaker@guelphpolice.ca, leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips.
