Captured on CCTV: Suspects in spate of Leeds station phone thefts

Police released these mages of people they want to question

POLICE today released CCTV pictures of suspects following a spate of thefts in and around Leeds railway station.

In one case, a woman was distracted while a thief took her iPhone. In another, a suitcase containing an iPhone and iPad was snatched.

A further victim was followed by a man asking for money. When he refused, the thief took his wallet and iPhone.

Pc Gavin Lawrence of British Transport Police said, “We’re asking for help from members of the public to help us identify these people who we would like to speak to, as we believe they may be able to assist us with our enquiries.”

He said in one case, a 49-year-old woman was at a table outside the Wetherspoons pub in Leeds station, with her handbag at her feet. Another woman sat behind the victim and moved the handbag away with her foot - whereupon an accomplice picked it up.

PC Lawrence said: “Mobile phones are a popular target for thieves so always keep it hidden. Installing a tracker application on your smartphone could help trace your device if it’s stolen.”

PC Lawrence added: “I would ask anyone who recognises anyone from the images to please get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information should call 0800 405040 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.