Bag-Snatcher Strikes 8 Times In A Week
Detectives investigating a series of bag snatches from vulnerable women in Southampton have issued this efit of a man they're looking for.
He's struck eight times in a week, targeting vulnerable women as they walked along the street - mainly in the St Marys area.
Officers are treating this spate of thefts very seriously and would like to reassure residents that they are doing everything they can to prevent further offences and bring the offender to justice before he strikes again.
Officers are treating this spate of thefts very seriously and would like to reassure residents that they are doing everything they can to prevent further offences and bring the offender to justice before he strikes again.
The offender appears to identify his victim beforehand and often approaches his target from behind. In all incidents the offender is described as:
- White
- Aged approximately 18-25 years old
- Slim build
- Short hair
- Riding a push bike
- He was wearing casual clothing
Police say women should stay alert and ensure their handbag is kept out of view when walking around the streets of Southampton, and make sure they keep a firm hold on it at all times.
They're asking people to report anything or anyone who they believe is acting suspiciously, especially someone riding around on a push bike.
Officers would also like to hear from anyone finding any discarded handbags or associated contents like purses, glasses, keys, address books etc. or other personal effects, but urge the finder not to touch the items.
Officers would also like to hear from anyone finding any discarded handbags or associated contents like purses, glasses, keys, address books etc. or other personal effects, but urge the finder not to touch the items.
High-visibility and covert public reassurance patrols are continuing in and around the target area by police on foot, cycles and in cars to help raise awareness, prevent further offences and more importantly, identify and apprehend the offender.
Anyone with information about who is committing these offences is asked to contact CID at Southampton Central police station on 101 or the Crimestoppers charity line anonymously on 0800 555 111.