IN a bid to reduce purse and handbag thefts within the town, Crime Reduction Officers at Ipswich Police are issuing advice to shoppers.In the first few days of January there have been what appear to be targeted thefts from people in the town, including purses and handbags, a significant number of the thefts have been from mothers who leave their pushchairs unattended with their bags attached to them.
IN a bid to reduce purse and handbag thefts within the town, Crime Reduction Officers at Ipswich Police are issuing advice to shoppers.
In the first few days of January there have been what appear to be targeted thefts from people in the town, including purses and handbags, a significant number of the thefts have been from mothers who leave their pushchairs unattended with their bags attached to them.
Crime Reduction Officer Tracey Hardy said: "Unfortunately in the most recent incidents, mothers have become victims. Whilst our shopping they have moved away from their pushchairs to choose items, when they have returned only a few minutes or even seconds later their bags or items from within their bags have been snatched.
"We cannot stress the importance enough that people become extra vigilant. They should keep their bags with them at all times, if possible bags should be carried across their bodies, with them zipped or buttoned up."
Personal safety leaflets are available from the Crime Reduction Office at Ipswich Police by calling 01473 383141.
Anyone who may have knowledge of such thefts are asked to call Ipswich Police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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