Labra said these groups operate in crowded places like restaurants and markets where they surreptitiously take the valuables of victims while they are distracted or not paying attention to them.
Early this month, a Swiss woman lost her bag to two men who casually went into the pizza parlor in Lapu-Lapu City. She was waiting for her order when the two men took off with her belongings.
Labra said the members of these groups maintain their cover by dressing well and looking presentable.
With many people coming to Cebu to do their holiday shopping the police will have their hands full in keeping the public safe.