Winnipeg police are warning the public as they investigate a string of thefts in which the suspects distract their victims in order to steal jewelry or other valuables.

Three of these pickpocket-type thefts were reported to police between Sept. 18 and this past Saturday.

Const. Claude Chancy said in one case, a suspect approached an unwitting victim with the ruse of praying for a sick family member, and in another incident, a suspect tried to hug a victim.

In every instance, Chancy said, victims were robbed of valuable gold jewelry, which was replaced with counterfeit items.

“These individuals prey on the kindness of their victims,” he said.

“They’re very approachable, they seem very friendly. It’s almost like having a wolf in sheep’s clothing, if you will.

“We’re asking people to ke

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