German police warn of 'Kettentrick' necklace thefts targeting seniors

Police in North Rhine-Westphalia reported two recent incidents of the so‑called “Kettentrick” – a trick theft targeting elderly people wearing valuable jewelry. On 6 June 2026, a 74‑year‑old woman in Haan was approached on the street, had her gold necklace stripped and was given cheap costume jewellery before the thieves fled in a van.

Later the same day, an 81‑year‑old woman in Holzwickede was robbed of her necklaces by a suspect who blocked her on a street, seized the jewellery and escaped in a black Volkswagen with a Polish licence plate. Both cases prompted the local police to seek witnesses and issue safety advice, warning seniors to be wary of strangers who seek physical proximity under the pretext of helping with jewellery.

The police emphasized that the perpetrators often work alone or in small groups, target visible valuables, and use a fake gift of cheap jewellery to distract victims while stealing the real piece. Authorities urged the public to report any suspicious activity and to avoid allowing strangers close physical contact.