Police are investigating a number of thefts in Fermanagh, Armagh and mid-Ulster. The PSNI say that raising awareness of the thieves' 'modus operandi' other businesses could avoid falling victim to the nearly all-female gang.
The suspects, who are predominantly female, dress in long flowing clothes like maxi dresses often layered with coats or cardigans. They have also been known to carry rucksacks and large bags and seem to travel as a group, often entering stores two or three at a time. They target high value alcohol such as brandy or champagne taken from smaller community shops.
Police advise business owners to install CCTV if not already in place because footage from previous thefts has been invaluable in helping them build a profile of the offenders. Meanwhile, police in Fermanagh are keen to urge business owners and employees to be vigilant when handling cash.
This follows several incidents in recent days of counterfeit £20 Bank of England notes being passed to retailers. Superintendent Robert McGowan said: "We have seen on each occasion that the persons responsible will attend a shop and buy a small item then pay with the fake note to receive legitimate currency in their change.
