Police warning after spate of handbag thefts

String of thefts targeting elderly sparks call for vigilance

Thames Valley Police is warning West Berkshire residents to be vigilant after a spate of purse and credit card thefts from handbags and coat pockets in Newbury and Thatcham.

Four incidents occurred on February 5 in local supermarkets whereby the victims, who were all elderly, had their credit cards or purse stolen.

A description of the possible offenders was given in one incident.

The first offender is described as a white female with olive skin, in her 40's and around 5ft5''. She was wearing a black fur hat and large black coat. The second person is described as a white male, around 5ft 8'', wearing a black jacket and dark coloured flat cap.

Police are offering the following advice to help keep your property protected:

Be aware of people around you when entering your PIN number, always shield the screen when entering the number into a machine.
Make sure you put your bank cards back in your purse and close the handbag securely
Never leave your bag unattended on your shopping trolley, even if you are looking at groceries.

If you have information which could help police, call the 24-hour Enquiry Centre on 101 or you have information on a suspected crime in progress, call 999. You can ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111