Detectives have released an image of a man they want to speak with after a series of mobile phone thefts in west London.
The appeal by the met comes after two victims were approached by a man who talked to them before thieving their devices.
The crimes took place in the Ealing Common and Acton area in the space of two weeks with the criminal approaching them and asking for money.
In the first incident on July 30 a man was approached by the thief on Gunnersbury Lane who requested a donation before grabbing his phone and escaping.
Using the same technique the man took another mobile on Uxbridge Road on August 14 and once again ran off before the victim could respond. The man police want to speak to has a large brown mark on his leg which police are hoping will help identify him.
Detective Sergeant Richard Kidd of the Met's West Area Command said: “I am keen to identify and speak who has a distinctive mark on his inner left lower leg.
"We now have two reports of incidents that are almost identical in method and we want to put a stop to the suspect's activities before any further offences are committed.
"We know all too well that the effects of being a victim of crime can last far longer than the replacement of the items stolen. If you can help us identify this man please do get in touch."
A phone is reported stolen in London every six minutes with the Met pledging to crack down on thieves.
If you know this man, or have information please call 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting 5610/16AUG.
To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
