PIZZA diners are being warned by Ilford police about a robbery scam being carried out in Redbridge.

Crooks are approaching diners in the Pizza Hut, High Road, Ilford and placing a map on the table over mobile phones, purses or wallets, while they pretend to ask for directions.

After they have finished, they pick up their maps but scoop up the valuables underneath and leave the restaurant.

In the latest incident, last Wednesday, a 34-year-old woman had her Nokia 8310 worth £200 taken by a youth, believed to be of Kosovan origin.

He placed the map on the table and asked directions in very broken English but the woman could not understand him and he left, taking her phone with him.

He is described as around 5ft 4ins tall, 15 years old, of eastern European appearance and wearing a green hat, dark jacket and dark trousers.

Witnesses should ring Ilford police on 8345 2779.

January 30, 2003 11:31