Police ramp up search to catch Irish 'scammers'

Police are ramping up their efforts to catch a group of brazen Irish tourists allegedly responsible for a spate of thefts and scams in south-east Queensland.

The group of nine people - a mix of men and women - have no fear of being identified or detected but they still remain on the run.

Police say they even have children doing their dirty work, with the group stealing from shops, cafes, restaurants and defrauding elderly residents.

There have been 12 offences reported to police in the Brisbane and Gold Coasts areas since January.

Police have released CCTV footage and images in the hope of finding them.

The women are accused of distracting shop attendants while their children put stolen items in prams.

Both the men and women have been reported to police for scamming food, by either claiming they found hair or a piece of glass in their meals.

“These are serious allegations and we’d very much like to hear their side of the story,” Detective Superintendent Tony Fleming said.

“Five men are alleged to have defrauded an elderly man of more than $25,000 for repairs to a roof that wasn’t conducted.”

If the thieves are caught, it is likely they will be deported.

READ MORE: 'Ancestors are murderers': Accused scammers' bizarre phone call

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.