Egg Harbor Township police are warning of an increase in distraction thefts around the English Creek ShopRite.
A suspect will approach the victim either inside the store or the parking lot, and try to speak to them in another language, police explained.
While the victim is distracted, a second suspect will take the victim's purse or wallet from the shopping cart.
Another method is approaching the victim as they are getting in their car, and telling them they dropped something, police said. As the victim gets out to check, another suspect opens the passenger side door and takes out a wallet or purse.
Police are warning the public to be cautious if anyone approaches them while shopping, and to not leave their valuables unattended.
The public is also told to call the police if they feel unsafe in any way.
