Distraction thieves hit sites in Beauly, Grantown-on-Spey and Inverness, sparking appeal from Police Scotland for people in the Highlands to be on their guard

A SPATE of distraction thefts has sparked a warning from police for people to be on their guard.

Jewellery was stolen from premises in Beauly and Grantown, while a 'ringing the changes' scam resulted in a low three-figure sum being stolen from an Inverness business.

The Inverness and Beauly incidents took place on Friday, with the Grantown theft occurring the following day.

Ringing the changes scams see thieves deliberately confuse staff while carrying out a transaction in order to leave with more cash than they started with.

Detective Sergeant Reuben Lindsay said: "We are keeping an open mind if these incidents are linked, although there are similarities in the techniques used.

"Each of these incidents are reported as having involved two or more women speaking with eastern European accents who deliberately distracted staff members to steal goods and cash.

"We would advise shop workers and owners to be aware and on their guard against such an approach. The types of criminals who carry out thefts like this tend to travel widely.

"Anyone who believes they have information or want to report any concerns can contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."