Epping Forest: Two arrests after series of Rolex thefts and attempted thefts

Two people have been arrested in connection with a series of high-end watch thefts and attempted thefts.

Loughton CID officers are investigating a number of reports of robbery, attempted robbery, theft and attempted theft across the Epping Forest district.

The incidents took place between Wednesday 19 May 2021 and Sunday 4 July 2021.

Victims have reported a woman approaching them and engaging in conversation with them about finding work.

It is then reported that she has shaken the victims’ hand, grabbed hold of their wrist or pushed herself up against them in order to steal their Rolex watches.

In several cases, the theft has been successful.

As a result of proactive patrols by our Community Safety Team officers, a man and a woman were arrested after officers spotted a vehicle in car park acting suspiciously.

The pair, both 29 and from Chigwell, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft.

The man was also further arrested on suspicion of driving without insurance.
They have been released under investigation while our enquiries continue – this means they are actively being investigated in connection with a number of crimes.

Officers in Loughton CID are aware of similar reported offences elsewhere in Essex and have been considering these alongside the investigation.

There may also be other victims, either in the Epping Forest district or elsewhere in the county, who have not yet come forward.

Anyone who has any information on the thefts and attempted thefts or who believes they may also be a victim should submit a report online or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

You can also contact us on 101 to report.