Small businesses across Kent have been warned to be on their guard after nine iPhones were stolen in a series of "brazen" distraction thefts.

A man and a woman are reported to be stealing the smart phones while claiming to be deaf and raising money for a charity.

Ten small businesses - including estate agents, beauty salons, nail bars and a florist - are known to have been affected across the county.

On Monday, January 12, businesses stretching from Chatham to Herne Bay were targeted, with the suspects stopping at most major towns in between.

The following day, small businesses in Canterbury, Dover, Deal, Sandwich and Ramsgate were also targeted as the spree of thefts continued.

So far nine iPhones have been reported stolen and police received a report of one attempted theft.

The couple, who fraudulently claim to represent an organisation called the International Deaf and Dumb Company, visit the businesses and present a petition attached to a clipboard.

They don’t speak but try to get staff to sign it and after becoming very animated pick up the clipboard which, unbeknown to staff, has been placed over someone’s smart phone.

The couple then leave, sneaking the phone out underneath the clipboard.

"Their actions are very brazen..." - Detective Chief Inspector Emma Banks

The man is described as about 6ft tall, of stocky build and with a chubby face. He has short dark brown hair which has been described as slicked back on some occasions.

The woman is described as between 5ft 2in and 5ft 5in tall with dark brown or black hair, often tied in a ponytail.

She’s been described as having a facial blemish, which could be a medical condition, around the mouth area.

DCI Emma Banks said: "The couple appear to be targeting businesses that may not have the same sophisticated security as larger businesses and are therefore more vulnerable.

"Their actions are very brazen. They deliberately distract staff, and intimidate them with their behaviour, before leaving.

"It’s only then that victims discover their mobile phones are missing.

"Always check the identity of anyone who visits your business premises and don’t be afraid to ask them to leave if they behave suspiciously.

"And always keep personal property out of sight and secured where possible."

Police are asking the public to contact them on 101 if they see the pair as both are wanted in connection with the reported offences.