Police investigate distraction theft
A woman who stole a pensioner’s purse during a distraction theft in Stratford is being hunted by police.
The incident occurred at around 2.50pm on Wednesday 20 July in the Swans Nest Lane Car Park, when the victim was approached by a woman holding a map asking her for directions.
As the 80-year-old victim helped the woman, her purse was removed from her handbag.
The offender is described as in her 30s, from East Asia, of slim build and wearing a blue summer dress and a straw hat.
Police are warning the public to be vigilant of this type of distraction offence and to keep valuables secure at all times in public.
Anyone with information about this offence should call police on 101 quoting incident 336 of 20 July or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.