A warning has been issued over distraction theft scammers operating in Marbella.

It comes after a driver claimed thieves deliberately punctured a tyre before stealing a bag containing cash, bank cards and personal documents.

The incident was reported in San Pedro de Alcantara and has been shared on social media in an effort to alert others.

According to the alleged victim, the theft happened at around 12.43pm on Friday near the San Pedro health centre while several vehicles were stopped at a traffic light.

The driver claims a van pulled up behind his Mercedes before a man in the passenger seat got out, apparently pretending to inspect the car’s registration plate.

‘In a fraction of a second, without me realising, he punctured one of the tyres on my car,’ the victim alleged.

Photographs shared online show a flat tyre and what appears to be a small metal object embedded in the rubber.

The driver said he later noticed something was wrong and got out of the vehicle to investigate.

At that point, the same man allegedly approached him and suggested there was a mechanic nearby who could repair the damaged wheel.

While the driver was distracted, he claims thieves stole his bag, which contained cash, several bank cards, a green NIE certificate, a passport, keys and documentation relating to a dog licence.

‘I don’t know exactly how it happened, but during those moments my bag was stolen,’ he wrote.

The incident is said to have taken place on Calle Príncipe de Asturias.

The alleged victim has urged residents to remain vigilant and to be cautious if approached by strangers after experiencing unexpected vehicle problems.

Distraction thefts involving punctured tyres have been reported in various parts of Spain in recent years, with criminals often targeting drivers when they stop to inspect damage or seek assistance.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.