Purse theft warning (From Northwich Guardian)

Purse theft warning

12:10pm Thursday 25th October 2012 in News

POLICE are warning people to be vigilant when shopping after a series of purse thefts in Northwich.

There have been three incidents over the last two weeks, all of which are thought to be linked.

On October 10, an elderly lady was shopping Sainsbury’s.

When she approached the till to pay, she realised her purse had been taken from her bag.

On the same day, a second elderly lady was shopping in Tesco when a man, believed to be the same man from Sainsbury’s, approached her in the tea aisle.

He had distracted her, asking her what the best brand of tea was.

When she tried to move, police say the man blocked her path and at some point, went into her handbag and stole her puse.

And on October 18, a third elderly lady fell victim to the same crime in Sainsbury’s, again not noticing her purse had been taken until she reached the tills.

Both Sainsbury’s shoppers say they didn’t notice anything suspicious, and they don’t recall being bumped into at any point.

Police have released CCTV footage of the man the want to speak to in connection with the thefts on October 10.

PC Claire Heatley, of Northwich Police, said: “We’re urging people to be careful, especially coming up to Christmas. Keep your handbags shut and keep them close to you at all times. If anyone tries to distract you, make sure you keep your bag close to you.”

Anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV image or has any information should contact PC Heatley at Northwich Police Station on 01606 363223.