Hunt for the real-life Fagin: Suspect is wanted by police after CCTV showed him encouraging a shirtless child to help him shoplift sweets from Co-op

THIS is the shocking moment a "real-life Fagin" used a young child to help him shoplift. Disturbing CCTV footage shows a m...

THIS is the shocking moment a "real-life Fagin" used a young child to help him shoplift.

Disturbing CCTV footage shows a man encouraging his accomplice to fill his bag with stolen items at a Co-op branch in Sidcup, South East London.

The thief, a man in his 20s or 30s wearing a beige T-shirt and carrying a black satchel, is seen taking items from his basket and putting them in his bag.

He then beckons the shirtless child, who appears to be around eight, to put the sweets and other items he was holding in the bag - just like the Oliver Twist villain Fagin.

Met Police are now appealing for witnesses or anyone that recognises the man, a white adult with brown hair and a chinstrap beard, to come forward.

Bexley Police posted footage of the October 20 theft on their Facebook page, writing: "Although the value of goods involved was low, it's shocking that the adult male appears to be encouraging the child with him to steal."

Social media users blasted the bizarre theft and questioned the relationship between the pair.

Linda Sharp commented: "What hope has that child got, with a role model like that?"

While it is not clear the relationship between the adult and child, many speculated they were father and son.

Luke Taylor said: "Disturbing how natural it was for the kid.

"And fully understanding his dad is a thief."

Phil Sloman added: "What a shining example to us all.

"Involving his child in the family business - touching."

Anyone with any information should Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, using the image Ref 017112.