Gold stolen from woman's neck

21 January 2011, 16:02 | Updated: 21 January 2011, 16:05

Bedfordshire Police are warning local residents to take care if they are wearing gold jewellery in public following a street robbery at 8.30pm on Wednesday 19 January, 2011, in Firbank Road, Bedford.

At around 8.30pm an Asian woman and was walking back from the corner shop on Elstow Road with her young nephew when she was approached by a man. The man grabbed her wrists and said “Bangles, bangles, bangles”, ripping two gold bangles from her wrists and a gold chain from around her neck. As he did so he also shouted “Do you want to die?” He then fled on foot towards Elstow Road. The woman was left shocked and with scratches on her arms and neck.

The delicate gold chain was made from Indian gold with pendant with the name “Margina” on it. The gold bracelets were engraved with patterns.

The offender described as a black male, 6’0” tall, slim build, aged around 23-24 years old, wearing a black hooded top and black jeans.

Detective Sergeant Rowland Wallbank, leading the investigation said: “We have launched a through investigation into the robbery where the victim was left shocked and shaken by her cowardly attacker.  If anyone saw him in the area before his attack or leaving the scene on Elstow Road we would like to hear about it. We want to stop him before he hurts someone.

“We would also like to know if anyone is offered this pendant marked with the name “Margina”.

“We know that Asian gold is particularly attractive to robbers and burglars and are asking local residents to take extra care and if possible not outwardly display their jewellery when on the street. They should also ensure their gold is securely locked away in their homes.”

“If you have any information about this its easy to call me on 01234 275357.”

You can contact Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212 or text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.