The large crowds in sales rooms frequently attract travelling pickpockets who operate as a team.

They steal purses, wallets and mobile phones. The thieves prefer clothing shops, cafés, restaurants and hotel breakfast areas for their tours.

Some police tips:

• Retailers: Warn customers who leave their handbags or purses unattended in shopping carts, addressing them directly or via the public address system.

• Clothing shops, cafés, restaurants and hotels: Watch out for visitors who are obviously looking for handbags lying around. Report anything suspicious to the police calling the number 110.