Kent McDonald's customer is targeted 'by teenager' in alleged distraction crime

Diners in Folkestone are being warned to remain vigilant after a mobile phone was reportedly stolen in a fast food outlet in the town centre. Kent Police were contacted on Monday, November 18 when it was reported that an iPhone had been taken while a woman was distracted in McDonald's on West Terrace.

It is alleged that, between 3pm and 3.30pm that day, a teenage boy approached the woman and her friend in the restaurant and attempted to make conversation. The teenager was suspected to have put a piece of paper over the woman’s mobile and later removed both the paper and the phone, while the phone was hidden by the paper.

He was described as around 17 years old and of mixed race, with short dark brown or black hair and wearing black clothes. Detective Inspector Carlo Capozzi said: "While my officers are investigating this report, I would urge people to be particularly careful with personal property when out in public, and when approached by someone they do not know.

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"Don’t be afraid to check that your valuables are secure before considering whether you wish to engage in conversation. Never leave valuables unattended, even for a few moments.‘Don't advertise your phone to thieves by leaving it on display - keep your belongings tucked away safely, in a zipped pocket or bag.‘Also, consider mobile phone tracking if you don’t already have this enabled on a smartphone. Apps can help you trace your device if it gets lost or stolen, so contact your service provider and enquire about what is available."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/196467/24.