Billericay Waitrose car park thieves target elderly woman

The woman, in her 70s, was followed to the Waitrose car park in Billericay High Street, by two men who claimed her car was damaged before stealing the items as she looked at the “damage”.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which took place shortly before 2pm on Monday.

Billericay West Tory councillor Phil Turner has issued a warning to any other residents to be aware in the area.

He said: “It is so low and opportunistic, these are lowlifes and with people like this, who do scams, you must think about what other depths they have sank too.

“What can these people’s lives be like if they are preying on the vulnerable and elderly.

“We work in Billericay to give everyone the best possible life and here you have people working on the darker side, there is no moral compass.

“I am truly horrified it happened here in Billericay and in a Waitrose car park too.

“People need to be aware of these scams and we urge people strongly to be as vigilant as they can and not be tricked into losing their belongings.”

Mr Turner added that he hopes the case is publicised widely, with images of suspects, to ensure that less people in the community fall prey to the pair.

He added: “We all get a bit complacent in Billericay, we all know it and love it as a safe and pleasant land which is why this is so shocking.

“This can happen anywhere and the more it happens, the more people should try to stay vigilant.”

A spokesman from Essex Police said: “We are currently investigating a theft, which occurred in Billericay on Monday, 25 March.

“Officers were called to the car park of Waitrose on Billericay High Street shortly before 2pm following reports of a theft.

“The woman was distracted by one man whilst opening her car door.

“Another man then entered her car, stealing her backpack which contained cash, bank cards and her driving licence.

“Enquiries remain ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.”