Sneak thief snatches £2,500 from Wellington shopper
A sneak thief snatched £2,500 from a pensioner's handbag while she was out Christmas shopping in Wellington, police revealed today.
The woman, who is in her 70s, had withdrawn the cash from a bank in the town just 35 minutes earlier.
West Mercia Police's crime risk manager Charles Naylor said: "She reported the money stolen from her zip-up handbag and the incident is being investigated." The incident happened on November 10.
It prompted Mr Naylor to issue an early warning to Christmas shoppers in Shropshire to be on their guard against pick-pockets and purse snatchers.
He urged people withdrawing cash from banks or post offices for Christmas shopping to remain alert at all times to avoid becoming victims of theft.
Mr Naylor said: "This distressing incident serves as a reminder to make sure purses, wallets and other valuables are safely secured in bags or pockets.
"Sadly, there are unscrupulous people around who will not hesitate to take advantage if they see an opportunity for easy pickings. This is the time of year when people are carrying large sums of money to buy Christmas presents and the streets are busy."
He advised shoppers to be aware of who was around them or standing very close, or who tried to engage them in conversation or otherwise distract them.
Mr Naylor added: "Purse thefts are not a daily occurrence but are often committed in spates and people need to be alert during the run-up to Christmas, especially when darkness has fallen.
"Purse thieves usually prey on older people or otherwise those who are vulnerable, such as mothers out with their children who could be easily distracted but everybody needs to be security-conscious.
"Town centres will be very busy and I urge people to take every possible precaution in looking after their valuables when out and about."
