Police seek man in relation to card thefts

Anyone recognising the man is asked to contact police. Photo / Supplied

Police are seeking a man who allegedly stole contact-less cards and used them at several locations around Hamilton, including service stations.

The man, who was captured by CCTV wearing a distinctive cap, is believed to have entered a store on Gordonton Rd on November 1 and 8 and stolen handbags belonging to staffers.

"The victims' contact-less credit or debit cards have been removed from the handbags and then been used at various locations around Hamilton, particularly at service stations," said Sergeant Neil Fenwick of the Waikato Investigation Support Unit.

"We're asking that anyone recognising the man in the cap make contact with the Hamilton Police. Contact-less cards are frequently being targeted by opportunistic offenders and we ask people to be mindful of how vulnerable they can be. If possible we ask that these cards be secured away out of sight."

Mr Fenwick said anyone whose card is stolen should notify their bank, and police so a stop can be put on the card.

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"We're also asking retailers to be vigilant, even with the contact-less cards you have the right to ask for identification, and if at the end of the day, something doesn't feel right it probably isn't so contact police."

Hamilton police said earlier this month they were receiving more than one complaint a day involving fraudulent use of contact-less cards.

Paywave can be used to make purchases under $80 without entering a pin.

Thieves have been targeting drunk partygoers at parties, police said.

Anyone with information should call Hamilton police on 07 858 6200.