APEX — Following a string of recent incidents where two women have used stolen information to obtain money through fraudulent checks, police have issued a warning to citizens to not leave valuables or items with identification information – such as licenses, credit cards or checks – inside an unlocked vehicle.

The women, who have been seen driving a black Nissan SUV, are suspected of stealing $5000 from various locations Tuesday. The scheme involves stealing identification information, as well as credit cards and checks from purses, then cashing the fraudulent checks at State Employees Credit Unions in the area.

Police are asking the public to help locate the two women. Anyone with information about either suspect can contact the Apex Police Department at 919-362-8661 or send an anonymous tip via text message to TIP411.

Citizens should always lock their vehicles and put valuables in the trunk, Stephens said.