A string of jewellery thefts targeting older residents in south Essex has sparked a police call to "stay alert", after a man had a watch stolen from his wrist.
Three incidents in the space of five days were reported on Canvey, and items were taken during conversations with two different suspects.
Most recently, a girl believed to be around 16 years old reportedly stole a man's watch while speaking to him on the seafront last Wednesday.
On the same day, a woman in her 30s was said to be asking for help to find work before stealing from an elderly resident.
Another incident involving the woman was reported the previous Friday, and Essex Police urged anyone with information to come forward.
"Please also check in on elderly relatives, friends and neighbours and make them aware of this warning," a spokesperson for the force said. "Raising awareness can help prevent others from becoming victims."
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The 16-year-old girl reportedly approach a man in his 60s along Eastern Esplanade, who "tried to engage him in a conversation while holding his wrists".
The man walked away, and realised his watch was missing minutes later.
Police appealed for information from the public, and the girl was described as having long, blonde hair and wearing a long-sleeved top and trousers on August 19.
The previous two incidents were, according to Essex Police, both carried out by the same woman who was asking for help finding employment on Tongres Road and Weel Road.
Reports suggest the suspect was white, in her 30s and wearing a long, white dress and large-brimmed hat.
"If you live in the area and have CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage from the times of the incidents, we'd like to hear from you," the Essex Police spokesperson said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting reference 42/132520/26 for the reported theft involving the 16-year-old, and incident 1123 of August 14 for the other two.
The police can be contacted through their website or by calling 101.
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