Police warn public to be on alert after attempted distraction theft in Bowmanville

Investigators are asking members of the public to be mindful of their surroundings and belongings after an attempted distraction theft in Bowmanville.

On February 28 at approximately 1 p.m., a woman was returning to her vehicle after shopping at a grocery store on Longworth Avenue when she was approached by an unknown man asking for directions to Bowmanville hospital. She provided directions and entered her vehicle. The same man approached the vehicle again, advising he was a mechanic and could tell there was an issue with the back tire.

The victim got out to inspect her tire and noticed another man opening the passenger door and grab her purse, but she managed to yank it free. The suspects then and then` fled on foot before entering a small dark car.

The first suspect is described as 5’6 with a tanned complexion, scruffy and wearing a face mask and dark clothing. He spoke with an accent. The second suspect is also 5’6, but clean shaven. He was wearing a face mask and dark clothing.

Investigators ask members of the community to be always mindful of their surroundings and always protect your valuables.  Fraudsters can be persuasive and if someone appears suspicious, don’t engage them in conversation.

Anyone with information about this type of incident is asked to call DRPS at 1-888-579-1520.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.