Alzheimer's sufferer tricked by thieves

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A vulnerable pensioner from Manchester suffering from Alzheimer's disease was deceived by a group of young women who stole his jewellery.

The robbery occurred on Whitchurch Road at its junction with Saltney Avenue, Withington, on Thursday 14th June around midday.

The 77-year-old man was approached by a group of up to four women, who had gotten out of a nearby vehicle.

They appeared friendly at first, hugging and kissing the man on the cheeks. He was initially flattered by the attention, but while he was distracted, the women removed two gold chains from around his neck and replaced them with cheap necklaces.

They then got back into their car and drove off.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. The thieves were described as being in their mid-20s but their ethnicity is unknown.

Police Constable Stewart Chitty said: "Anyone reading this appeal will be rightly disgusted that a vulnerable man has been picked on in this way. These women deliberately flattered this man and prayed upon his vulnerabilities just to get their hands on two gold chains.

"It is a cowardly and underhand thing to do and I hope these women are utterly ashamed of themselves.

"Firstly I want to appeal to anyone who might have witnessed what happened to come forward. There may have been passing motorists who saw a group of girls all over this elderly man, and if you did see it but did not think anything of it at the time, then I really want to hear from you.

"Secondly, we have publicised this appeal so people can be on their guard and not fall victim to this sort of scam. These women have shown they have no morals so may well try the same trick with another vulnerable man. We need to stop that from happening and also catch the offenders so please, if you know something or you see something, please call us."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4784 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.