Women targeted by city jewellery scam

Police have issued a warning for people to be vigilant after two women had valuable jewellery stolen by scammers in Sunderland city centre.

At about 10am on Monday, two women, aged 61 and 82, were approached on Park Lane and Maritime Terrace, by two other women claiming to be selling jewellery.

On both occasions, the women reported having cheap necklaces placed on their necks and rings on hands.

When they refused to buy any items, the women said they had had their real necklacestaken and were left with the cheap alternative.

Police officers were contacted and on Tuesday, a 20-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of theft.

She has since been released under investigation.

Northumbria Police have launched an investigation and officers are trying to trace another woman in relation to the reports who might be able to help officers with their inquiries.

The woman is described as slim build with black hair and was wearing a black top with red coloured trousers and a surgical mask with handbag over her shoulder.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “We’re asking members of the public to be vigilant after a woman was arrested on suspicion of stealing jewellery in Sunderland city centre.

"An investigation is underway and officers are trying to trace another woman in relation to the reports who might be able to help officers with their inquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police via their website using the Tell us Something page quoting log 264 110820.