Who are these people?

Police have released CCTV images of people they wish to speak to in connection with thefts at restaurants in Basildon.

On March 3, 2012 at around 6.30pm, two men entered the Harvester restaurant at the Five Bells and approached tables of diners offering to sell them greetings cards.

Whilst distracting the victim with the cards, an Iphone worth an estimated £350, was stolen from the table.

The suspects were described as two men with black untidy hair, around 5’6” tall, rough looking and un-groomed. One had gold upper teeth.

Police believe the incident may be linked to a similar incident which occurred a week later at Grand Central restaurant, Pipps Hill.

On March 10, 2012 at 9pm two women entered the restaurant offering to sell similar items and handing out leaflets.

They placed the leaflets on a table and distracted the victim whilst their Iphone was stolen from the table. Both women are thought to be Romanian from the description witnesses have given
and police also want to speak to a man captured on the CCTV also as part of their enquiries.

Investigating officer, Pc Steven Miller, said: "The suspects firstly ask to change up a large quantity of notes at the bar before they approach the tables of the diners, so we are asking all restaurants in the area to be wary if they are approached by any men or women matching these descriptions to change up money.

"On both occasions, these victims have been distracted by whatever the suspects are trying to sell, and high value phones have been stolen.

"The CCTV of the men is quite clear, and we need to hear from you if you know who they are. It is quite possible that they are travelling to this area with the intent to commit crime, so if you see them out and about, please call police immediately.

"In the mean time, we are advising people to ensure that their personal belongings are kept secure at all times, and if you are approached by anyone when you are out, be on your guard and stay fully alert if you think their intentions may be dishonourable.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Pc Steven Miller at the Basildon area investigation team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.