NINE Irish tourists wanted in Australia over a series of scams and thefts against small businesses and elderly people are believed to have fled the country.
The suspects, who work in groups, have been involved in 12 offences since January between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
It is not yet known which country they have fled to.
One scam involved a number of women with children who become disruptive and aggressive to distract and intimidate shop staff.
(Image: Queensland Police)They then use large handbags and prams to hide stolen goods.
Another incident involved four men claiming to have found hair in their food at a Brisbane restaurant before leaving without paying.
While on yet another occasion, a group left without paying after claiming to have found glass in their food.
A group of men were also reported to be offering discounted work on driveways and roofing before failing to complete the work or even turn up.
(Image: Queensland Police)Police said they would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance in providing information which has allowed police to progress their investigation.
An online database has now been set up to help retailers share information on scammers after the recent rampage.
The SafeCity Network database, launched by the National Retail Association with the support of Crime Stoppers and Brisbane City Council, will be trialled over a 12-month period for all retailers across Brisbane.
(Image: Queensland Police)Crime Stoppers chief executive Trevor O’Hara said the trial was free to use and would better equip businesses against scams and retail theft.
“No single operator has the capacity to tackle retail crime alone," he said.
"However with the NRA SafeCity Network, retailers can access a bank of new information on crimes that may have gone unreported otherwise, to better connect the dots, tackle problem perpetrators, and share that information with each other and local law enforcement."
Anyone who recognises the people involved or knows where they are is asked to contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
