POLICE are warning stores in Chester to be on the lookout for shoppers using stolen gift vouchers.
Last month, more than £35,000 worth of Provident vouchers were stolen from the personal credit firm’s Bootle office in North Liverpool.
These vouchers were then used by two men in HMV at the Coliseum Retail Park, Ellesmere Port, to buy £1,400 worth of goods, including a PlayStation 3 and iPods.
Police now fear that Chester’s shops could be targeted by the offenders in the near future and are asking employees to check with Provident first before allowing goods to be bought with vouchers.
Spokeswoman Shelley Williams said: “As this particular incident occurred nearby in Ellesmere Port, it is possible that there may be further attempts to use these vouchers in the surrounding area.
“Proprietors are advised to contact Provident on 0151 524 0055 and verify serial codes. Any unusual activity should be reported to police.”
Anybody with information in relation to the theft of the vouchers should contact PC Ollie Carruthers at Ellesmere Port Neighbourhood Policing Unit on 0845 458 0000.
