Waitemata Police want to identify the man pictured, in relation to two incidents where elderly people have been pickpocketed. (FULL FRONTAL PHOTO OF OFFENDER AND PICKPOCKETING AVAILABLE ON THIS RELEASE ON POLICE WEBSITE)
On Friday 1 July, the elderly victim was reading at the New Lynn library. His Samsung phone was in his pocket. A member of the public saw the man in the blue top reach over towards the victim’s pocket. The witness took a photo as the offender took the phone from the victim’s pocket.
Forty minutes later, the same man has gone into the Henderson TAB, where an elderly man was sitting watching something on a tv.
Soon after, the victim noticed his wallet was missing and spoke to the staff. They reviewed security footage, which showed the man in the blue singlet removing the man’s wallet from his pocket.
“We want to know who this bloke is and if he sees this I would suggest he get in touch with us as soon as possible. The person who took the photo in the library and gave it to us has done well to act so quickly and we’re very grateful for their help” says Senior Constable Kevin Morgan, Waitemata Police.
Anyone who recognises the man is asked to call Senior Constable Kevin Morgan at the New Lynn Police on 09 839 0600.
Nominations can also be private messaged to the Waitemata Police Facebook page.
Information can also be given anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Beth Bates/NZ Police
