Bold Thieves Target Elderly Shopper in Brazen Market Heist
Police have released CCTV images of two women they want to quiz over a nasty distraction theft at Victoria Market.
Victim Followed After Withdrawing Cash
The 66-year-old shopper had just withdrawn a large sum of cash from Lloyds Bank on Lower Parliament Street. Around noon on Saturday 24 June, she headed to Victoria Market, placing the cash in her shopping trolley.
That’s when a young woman approached her, striking up a chat. Another woman was spotted bending down to tie her shoe — a move that would prove sinister.
Moments later, the victim realised her trolley had been slashed and the money was gone.
Police Hunting Two Women After ‘Distressing’ Theft
“This was extremely distressing for the victim who has lost a significant amount of money,” said PC Aaron Harthill-Harrison, leading the investigation. “We believe the suspects followed her from the bank to the market. That’s the only way they’d know the cash was in her trolley.”
“This kind of distraction theft isn’t new — crooks have targeted victims right after taking out big cash sums.”
“We’ve spent hours combing CCTV footage to track them down and will not tolerate this behaviour in our city.”
“If you recognise these women, please get in touch urgently.”
“And a word of warning: don’t carry large sums of money. If you must, be extra cautious.”
Spot the Suspects? Call Police Now
If you recognise the women in the images, contact police on 101 quoting incident 0325 of 24 June 2023. You can also ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
