PICKPOCKETS preyed on a pensioner after he bumped into someone who bent down to pick up some money.

The man in his 70s was leaving Sainsbury’s, in the Cricketers Retail Park, when a person in front of him suddenly bent down to pick up cash that they had dropped.

When the pensioner accidentally bumped into them, he then felt someone push into him from behind and brush against his leg.

It is believed that is when his wallet was stolen.

The suspects then quickly left the scene.

The victim only discovered his wallet was missing when he was at home later in the day.

The incident sparked fears that it could be a new way criminals are distracting people to steal from them.

Kevin Blake, a Basildon councillor and neighbourhood watch co-ordinator, said; “It’s awful, I feel for this poor man.

“Until the punishment fits the crime, these people will carry on doing these sorts of things.

“There’s nothing really I can suggest other than to keep your wits about you.

“These kind of distraction thefts are not that common at all, but it makes you wonder if they are starting new tactics.

“I do think that people shouldn’t be concerned, but they should be cautious.

An Essex Police spokesman said that they are investigating the crime as a robbery.

So far, no arrests have been made and enquiries are continuing.

Essex Police did not reveal what the wallet contained or issue any descriptions of the suspects.

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “The safety of our customers is extremely important to us and we’re helping the police with their enquiries.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Essex Police on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/86465/17.

Alternatively call independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org to complete an online form.