THREE people have been arrested in connection with a series of watch thefts committed by a gang dubbed the 'Rolex Rippers'. 

Over the last 18 months, the gang has committed 60 crimes across Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and Dorset, usually preying on older men. 

The Rolex Rippers have been disguising themselves as lost tourists or charity workers to gain the trust of their victims before snatching their watches and fleeing. 

READ MORE: Witnesses appeal after 30 luxury watch distraction thefts

In the most recent theft, which took place in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, two women asked the victim for directions before one of them shook his hand and made off with his £5,000 Rolex Air-King watch. 

An accomplice was reportedly waiting in a car nearby. 

Two women, aged 29 and 37, and a man aged 32, were taken into police custody. 
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

A police spokesman in Kent said: “We’re not ruling out whether they could be linked with this, or other, cases.”