Police Warn Women To Beware Of Purse Theft Gang

Women doing their Christmas shopping in South Kent are being warned about a gang of female criminals who have struck nearly 20 times in the past month.

The offenders who are described as women of Eastern European appearance have stolen at least 19 purses from women shopping in Folkestone, Hythe and Dover.

All of the crimes have followed a similar pattern, with the offenders looking out for elderly ladies who go to the bank and then head to the shops with cash.

Kent Police is warning women out shopping to beware of anyone following them, and to make sure they keep their purses secure in inside pockets.

Det Sgt Stuart Walker said: "I would advise ladies to keep their handbags safe by holding onto it at all times. If you put it in a shopping trolley in a supermarket, never leave the trolley unattended, and keep your purse separate if possible, in a trouser pocket, or the inside pocket of a coat, and only bring it out when you need to pay."

If you see anyone suspicious while out shopping, please call Kent Police on 01303 850055.

Many retail outlets are members of the shopwatch scheme, and details of offenders can be circulated quickly via the shopwatch radio network.