Police have issued an efit of a woman they would like to speak to following a distraction theft in Liphook.
The incident took place at some time between 1.30pm and 1.45pm on Sunday, February 17 at Sainsbury's, Liphook.
The victim, aged 82, was approached in Sainsbury's car park by a woman asking for change. She got her purse out of her handbag in order to help the woman.
Later that day, the victim was informed by her bank that several withdrawals amounting to £400 had occurred.
The woman police want to speak to is described as:
- White
- Aged 20 to 25
- Tanned, described as almost Spanish looking
- Short brown layered hair above the collar and brushed back
- She was wearing a maroon / purple jacket
- Spoke in broken English. The victim believes she may have had a Spanish accent
PC John Hood, said: "It appears that the offender may not be working alone and used this distraction technique on the victim while an accomplice stole her bank cards.
"The incident occurred during peak hours in broad daylight. Do you think you know the woman from the efit image? Did you see anyone matching the description of the offender in the area? Did you see anyone else acting suspiciously who could have been working with this woman while she distracted the victim?
"I would urge all shoppers to be vigilant and not to leave their personal belongings unattended at any time. If you are approached by a person you don't know and you doubt or suspect their intentions, then recall as much information as possible and contact the police.
"If you are aware of a similar incident having occurred to someone you know at either Sainsbury's or another location then please encourage that person to report it to police."
