Shoppers are being urged to safeguard their purses following a spate of thefts across Staffordshire.
Between July 21 and July 25, offenders have struck in supermarkets and other shops in areas including Lichfield, Burntwood, Rugeley, Cannock, Stone, Tamworth and Stafford.
All of the victims have been women, with the majority elderly. Purses or wallets have been taken from them or their bags, or the bags themselves have been stolen.
On two occasions, the thieves have gone on to withdraw money from their victim’s account using stolen bank cards.
Superintendent Juliet Prince, from Staffordshire Police, said:
“We’re obviously investigating potential links between these crimes. On some occasions, victims have been distracted by being engaged in conversation with the thieves before realising their purse has gone.
“It appears that both male and female offenders are involved and are deliberately targeting elderly women or mothers with pushchairs. We’re asking shoppers to be vigilant and to safeguard their purses and bags at all times – particularly if a stranger tries to start a conversation with them.
“Anyone who sees anything suspicious or has an information about the crimes should ring us on 0300 123 4455.”
