Image released in shop thefts probe

of a suspect they want to question.

The incidents all took place at various mobile phone shops in Bow Street,Lisburn, Newry Street, Banbridge and Newry’s Buttercrane Centre on Tuesday, January 28.

The items stolen were working display i-phones valued around £400-£500 each.

A police spokesperson said that in each instance a group of people entered the store before causing a distraction while a demonstration mobile phone was stolen.

The spokesperson continued: “Police believe that the same group was involved on each occasion and are releasing an image of one individual who they believe may be able to assist them with their enquiries.”

Officers want anyone who can identify this individual or who has any information about any of the thefts to contact them on the non-emergency number 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Mobile phones are becoming an increasingly attractive target for thieves because they can be sold for hundreds of pounds overseas, where the newest models are not yet available. The UK is a world leader in responding to mobile phone crime, with the industry and the police having worked together to block stolen phones within 48 hours – stopping their re-use and making them less valuable.

In recent years manufacturers outlined a range of security features they add to handsets making it harder for criminals to use them.