Man arrested following a number of thefts in Newcastle and North Tyneside over the Easter weekend

Northumbria Police has said that a spate of suspected thefts took place at a range of premises between Friday, April 7, and Saturday, April 8.

Over the Easter weekend, officers have received six reports of theft from premises such as hair salons and pubs.

An investigation has been launched into each report and a 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of theft.

Police say that in all the incidents, a male suspect approached the victims, distracted them with a newspaper that they have then used to discretely conceal and steal items such as mobile phones and cash.

Alongside the six reports that are already being looked into, officers believe there are more victims and have issued an appeal for anyone who may have been affected to come forward and speak to them.

Any potential victims, or anyone with information, is asked to contact officers via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 and quote the reference NP-20230408-0962.

Alternatively, members of the public can email [email protected].

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