Recent Theft Incidents Reported

Authorities in Derbyshire are investigating a series of thefts involving bank cards that occurred on Thursday. These incidents have raised concerns for public safety, particularly in locations such as hospital car parks and petrol stations.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Incident

One victim reported losing a “significant” amount of money after being approached in the car park of Chesterfield Royal Hospital around 1:00 PM BST. A man wearing a high-visibility jacket and a face mask informed her that she could not park there and needed to pay a fee. Subsequently, she discovered that her bank card was missing and unauthorized withdrawals had been made from her account.

Multiple Reports Across Derbyshire

Several similar cases were reported throughout Derbyshire on the same day. For example:

• At approximately 11:00 AM BST, a woman was targeted at a Sainsbury’s petrol station in Ripley, where two men posed as store employees.
• Earlier that morning, a man filling up at an Asda petrol station in Long Eaton was approached and handed his bank card to a suspect who then used it for unauthorized transactions.

Cash Machine Theft

Reports indicate that another individual fell victim to a similar scheme while using a cash point. A man suggested that the machine was malfunctioning and advised the victim to cancel the transaction. Following this, the victim noticed funds were missing from their account.

Increased Vigilance Recommended

Further reports highlighted incidents at a Lloyds cash machine in Alfreton, where a woman similarly lost her bank card while conducting a transaction. Law enforcement officials have arrested two suspects believed to be involved in these series of thefts.

Fraud protection officer Tammy Barnes emphasizes the importance of caution. “This type of fraud tactic seems to be increasing nationally,” she stated, advising citizens to use official payment methods and to validate the identity of anyone approaching them under suspicious circumstances.

Public Response and Further Guidance

Local authorities are urging anyone who might have been targeted or who holds information about these incidents to come forward. The police advise all individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior immediately.