Gardai in County Waterford says there’s been a recent spate of thefts targeting the elderly in Dungarvan.

It’s believed that the thieves are spying on pensioners as they the pay for their shopping trying to get sight of their pin numbers.

Sergeant Alan Toft from Dungarvan Garda Station says the elderly people are distracted by the gang outside who pickpocket their bank card.

“We’re investigating a couple of incidents where elderly people have been targeted coming out of shopping centres.

“They’ve been targeted by a group of either males or males and females.

“They’re coming up to them on false pretences asking them for directions or looking for assistance. During this time people have reported that their credit cards and debit cards have been stolen.

“It’s believed they’re being watched in the shop and being targeted as elderly and vulnerable.”

Sergeant Toft added that “it’s only later when they see transactions gone from their accounts that they’re querying it”.

“Just be vigilant of your accounts, check your online banking if you can.”

“Before anyone notices it, the money has gone, they’re getting as much money as they can before the cards are cancelled.

“We’re asking people who are shopping in the areas around Dungarvan just to be vigilant and if they see anything suspicious to contact us here at Dungarvan Garda Station on 058 48600.

Sergeant Toft says the incidents are happening at the larger supermarkets including Aldi, Lidl and Dunnes Stores.