TWO people have been charged with distraction thefts after elderly members of the public were approached in the street by people claiming to be charity workers.

The incidents, in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and in Essex, took place between February 2 and March 7, and saw jewellery stolen from the people after being approached.

Now, Beniamin Radu, 22, and Narcisa Schian, 22, both of Mears Drive, Birmingham, have been charged with conspiracy to steal in connection with the incidents. They have both been remanded in custody.

Three other people – Alina Cristea, 21, Denisa Gheorghe, 27, and Patricia Tanase, 22, all of Jellicoe Close, Slough – have already been charged in connection with the incidents and remain remanded in custody.

A further three people who were initially arrested in connection with the thefts have been released with no further action. One other person remains on bail following his arrest.

All five people who have been charged are due to appear in court on Wednesday, May 3.

“We are continuing to appeal for anybody who feels they may have been a victim of a distraction theft to please get in touch with us on 101 quoting Operation Jewel,” said a Wiltshire Police spokesperson.