Pickpockets preying on shoppers in Letchworth, police warn
POLICE in Letchworth GC are urging shoppers to be vigilant following a number of purse dipping incidents in the town.Inspector Jason Thorne said: There have not been a large number of purse dippings and incidents like this are rare but I would like to t
POLICE in Letchworth GC are urging shoppers to be vigilant following a number of purse dipping incidents in the town.
Inspector Jason Thorne said: "There have not been a large number of purse dippings and incidents like this are rare but I would like to take this opportunity to make people aware of the situation and remind them to keep their money and valuables secure so they are not an easy target for opportunist thieves."
Offenders reach into people's pockets or handbags and remove valuables such as purses or wallets or mobile phones. Most offenders are not seen and have left before the victim realises what has happened.
Insp Thorne added: "It is easy for people to become distracted, particularly if it is busy, and leave bags unattended and I would ask people to follow some simple crime prevention advice to reduce their chance of becoming a victim.
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"It is about being more aware of who is around and limiting the opportunity for someone to take something that belongs to you. We want to help reduce the number of victims, but we need the public to also look out for vulnerable people as well as our younger community."
There were seven incidents in the town on Friday last week. The suspects are described as two Eastern European women, one of whom was pregnant.
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Anyone who has any information about the incidents is asked to call Hertfordshire Constabulary on 0845 3300 222.
Police have issued this advice:
* Be alert when you are out and aware of who is around you.
* Keep purses and wallets secure - women should keep bags zipped up.
* Never leave your bag unattended in a trolley or in your car
* If you are suspicious of anyone, contact police
