Officers investigating a handbag theft in Wimborne and subsequent fraudulent card use are issuing CCTV images of three people they would like to speak to.
The victim, aged in her 80s, was shopping in M&Co in Crown Mead at around 12pm on Tuesday 15 October 2019 when her handbag, which was in the storage area of her wheeled walking frame, was stolen.
The bag contained her purse and the victim’s bank card was subsequently used to withdraw £500 and carry out transactions totalling £240 from various stores in Ringwood.
Cash totalling £500 was also taken from the victim’s purse and the handbag contained her house keys as well as information relating to her address, which meant the victim had to change the locks at home.
Police Community Support Investigator Kate Hann, of Dorset Police, said: “These cruel thieves have targeted an elderly woman and the whole ordeal has left her extremely distressed.
“It is believed the offenders may have been watching the victim for a period of time before taking the opportunity to steal her bag.
“We are determined to identify those responsible and are carrying out a detailed investigation into this offence.
“As part of our enquiries, we have obtained CCTV footage of three people we would like to speak to in connection with the incident. I would urge anyone who recognises them to please contact police.
“I would also urge shoppers to remain vigilant to avoid becoming victims of this type of offence.
“Make sure your bag is kept close and secured at all times and there are also items such as purse bells that can make it harder for thieves to steal items from your bag. For more crime prevention advice visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email [email protected] or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190162880. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
