Isle of Wight Police are renewing an appeal for information about a group of men seen acting suspiciously in shops across the Isle of Wight this week.  12 reports have been received so far about stolen takings or attempts to steal money by confusing shop staff.

On one occasion, two men were seen entering a shop. One of them sat down whilst the other went to a counter inside the store. He asked a member of staff to change £660 worth of £10 notes into £20 notes.  The member of staff did this and passed him the money. The man then put his hands on the money, passed the notes back to the member of staff and said that he meant 20 pence pieces not £20 notes. The member of staff explained to him that the shop could not do this and gave him back the £10 notes. The member of staff recounted the £20 notes later in the day and found that £260 was missing.

On a second occasion, a man entered another shop and asked the cashier to change £200 into different denominations. Whilst the cashier was working on this request, the man changed his mind about which denominations he wanted, confusing the cashier. The next day the shop’s manager found that the till was missing £100.

The men were described as being of Mediterranean appearance.

Isle of Wight Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector Bill Pinnell said: 

“We are eager to support businesses across the island, and are keen to track down these individuals as soon as possible. I would urge residents and businesses to report any suspicious activity to the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Newport Police Station by phoning 101. In an emergency, dial 999. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call 0845 045 45 45.