Area Four crime chief, Deputy Superintendent Michael Phipps, is urging holiday shoppers to avoid long conversations with strangers, who use the distractive ploy to rob them.

"They will use the opportunity to get close to you and in a short while snatch your property (bags, purse, etc)," warned Phipps, who explained that the modus operandi includes asking for directions.

With holiday shopping expected to get into full swing by next week, the senior officer is warning buyers, especially women, to be very careful when using ATMs.

"Make observation of the surroundings and if there are anything looking suspicious, use another machine. Make sure you put away your money and ATM card before exiting the machine," the deputy superintendent said.

Precautions

Pedestrians have been cautioned to avoid danger spots, poorly lit streets and isolated car parks.

"If the place is deserted, walk in the middle of the sidewalk," said Phipps.

He stressed that shoppers should walk in groups and avoid passing close to stationary cars with engines running.

"Don't overload yourself with bags or packages. Check to see if you are being followed. If a vehicle pulls up suddenly beside you, turn and walk in the opposite direction," the veteran cop said.

Phipps also advised the Yuletide faithful to be careful when chartering taxis.

"Walk with the telephone numbers of reputable taxi companies, or take taxis that you know," he added.

glenroy.sinclair@gleanerjm.com