POLICE are warning shoppers in Ipswich town centre to stay on their guard following a spate of purse thefts.

POLICE are warning shoppers in Ipswich town centre to stay on their guard following a spate of purse thefts.

The latest incident took place in a shop at 2.15pm on July 17 in Westgate Street.

A mother with a buggy saw two women one of whom had her hands in the bag which was hooked to the buggy.

Both women ran out of the shop when they were spotted.

One of the women was in her 30s with long dark hair in a ponytail.

Police said there have been a number of purse thefts in the centre of Ipswich in the past few weeks, carried out by women with similar sounding descriptions.

Witnesses have described two women described as of European or Asian appearance, 5ft to 5ft 3ins, in their 30s, with shoulder length dark hair or long dark hair in a ponytail.

A police spokesman said: “Please be aware of these crimes, keep personal belongings with you at all times, keep purses and cash secure and bags fastened.”

Those who have information on the thefts or anyone who recognises the descriptions given should contact Suffolk police on 01473 613500.