Spate of mobile thefts

THREE MEN are wanted by police following a spate of mobile phone thefts from stores in Horsham town centre.

Raiders struck Vodafone, on West Street, three times in December. The Carphone Warehouse has also fallen victim to the thefts.

More than ten phones have been snatched from the display stands over the festive season.

They include HTCs, Blackberrys, Nokias and Samsungs.

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Thieves have employed the sinister tactic of distracting staff as accomplices make off with the valuables.

On Christmas Eve (December 24) two men were seen walking in and out of the Vodafone store a number of times before they were joined by a third man who help steal five phones around 1pm.

Staff attempted to close the doors and seal the criminals inside, but they escaped after forcing them open, causing damage.

Witnesses told police the thieves were seen running towards Costa, down Black Horse Way, before disappearing into Sainsbury’s car park past the Forum.

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They are all described as white in their late teens to early 20s.

One man was wearing a white and grey hooded top with black tracksuit bottoms and trainers.

Another wore dark clothing and trainers and a fur-hooded jacket.

The third is described as dark haired, wearing a jacket with a grey hooded top underneath and dark trainers.

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Anyone with information regarding this incident can contact 101 quoting serial number 0838 24/12/11.

A similar incident took place at the Carphone Warehouse, also on West Street, whereby a number of men snatched six phones at 1.55pm on Friday December 30.

They ran off towards Black Horse Way following the same route as the previous thieves.

Serial number 0777 30/12/11.

PC Natalie Steward said: “Horsham Police are attempting to establish the link between the incidents and are appealing for anyone with information.

“Always contact 999 if you witness the crime as it takes place.”