7 February 2012

Police are urging shoppers in Diss to be vigilant after two women had handbags stolen at a local supermarket.

The incidents happened around lunchtime on January 30 and 31 at Morrisons in Victoria Road.

In the first incident a shopper was approached by a woman who commented on one of the products on a nearby shelf. Moments later the shopper noticed the woman had taken her red handbag from the trolley and she tried to leave the store. The victim gave chase and the suspect dropped the handbag before running from the scene through the car park.

A similar incident happened the following day when a man snatched a handbag from a trolley before fleeing the store. The handbag contained vitamins, £140 in cash and bank cards.

Officers are urging shoppers to keep their personal belongings with them at all times and make sure handbags are kept closed.

Crime prevention advice includes:

• Keep your bag closed and close to you at all times, if possible with the opening towards your body.
• Close your purse and put it away before you leave the till.
• Try not to overload yourself with bags and coats.
• Avoid carrying your purse or wallet in a back trouser pocket.
• Keep cash secure and out of sight.
• Do not leave your handbag, push chair or shopping trolley unattended for any length of time.
• Always make sure that no one is looking over your shoulder before entering your PIN number at the cash machine, make sure your money is put away before leaving the machine and ensure your purse is out of reach. Do not write down your PIN and keep it in your wallet/ purse/ handbag. If you cannot remember your PIN, you can change it at your bank to a number which is easier to remember.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incidents or has information concerning them.

Contact PC Simon Berrisford at Diss Police Station on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.