West Midlands Police release video showing pickpockets target five people in ten minutes - video

The video is the latest in a series of clips released as part of West Midlands Police's #SpotThePickpocket campaign

The two thieves were given 16 weeks in jail for their crimes (West Midlands Police)

West Midlands Police have released a video that shows a group of thieves targeting five people in just under ten minutes as part of a campaign to raise awareness against the threat of pickpockets.

As part of their #SpotThePickpocket campaign, the WMP released the CCTV footage on Friday that shows three thieves, including one young boy, attempt to steal possession from the bags and pockets of unaware shoppers.

The pickpockets were eventually spotted by the shop’s security staff and handed over to police, before being sentenced to 16 weeks in prison.

A young accomplice who acted as a lookout was handed a six-month youth rehabilitation order.

The clip is the latest video to be released as part of their #SpotThePickpocket campaign which was launched in November 2014.

Alongside the video, West Midlands Police released a list of things to do to minimise becoming a victim of theft.

”Our advice is to make sure you keep an eye on your possessions while you are in busy shops. Wear a bag that goes across your body to hold your most valuable items and to watch out for people getting in your personal space.”