Police are making appeals for witnesses after two separate incidents where handbags were stolen in Portsmouth. It is not believed these incidents are linked, however officers are issuing a warning to prevent further attacks.
On Friday, September 18 between 4.45pm and 5.15pm, a 57-year-old woman was at the front door of her house in Cyprus Road, getting her keys out of her handbag, when she was approached from behind by three youths.
Two of the youths held the woman’s arms, while the third took her bag. All three then ran away. The bag contained a mobile phone and some cosmetics.
The three youths are described as aged between 12 and 14 years of age, around 5ft 3ins tall, all wearing hooded jumpers, and one was also wearing dark trousers.
The second incident took place between 2pm and 2.30pm on Saturday, September 19, when a 61-year-old woman was walking to her car in Clarence Parade, Southsea.
A man aged in his early 20s approached the woman from behind on a mountain bike. As he passed the woman he grabbed her bag, before riding off towards Lennox Road South.
Detective Constable Rachael Kensett said, “Incidents of this type are very frightening for the victims, and often people carry very personal items in their handbags. I would advise people in Portsmouth to remain vigilant against handbag thefts – if possible wear a bag which has a strap crossing the body, and do not let your bag hang loosely or carry it in your hand, but keep it close to your body.
“If anyone has any information about either of these incidents please contact us as soon as possible. Perhaps you saw the offenders before or after these offences took place? Any details may prove vital.”
Can you help?
Anyone with information is asked to contact CID at Fratton police station on 101 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, please call 0845 045 45 45.
