Bag-Snatcher Sought By Police


Another elderly woman is targeted

Local police are appealing for witnesses to come forwards after a thief snatched a handbag from an elderly woman in Shepherd's Bush - the latest in a series of attacks against elderly residents.

The incident took place on Monday January 25 at around 1.30pm at the junction of Askew Road and Hayden Park Road when the woman was approached from behind and pushed in the back.

The thief then pulled the woman's handbag away from her and made off with it. The woman was unharmed.

The suspect is believed to be a young black male riding a bike.

Detective Sergeant Garry Poole for the Hammersmith and Fulham Robbery Squad said: "Robbery continues to fall in Hammersmith & Fulham for the fifth consecutive year. It is unfortunate that an elderly female has been targeted and this incident is potentially linked to a further six incidents between the 10th December 2009 and the 25th January 2010 in the W12 area involving mainly elderly victims.

"All are despicable offences against lone females. Robbery Squad officers are working tirelessly to ensure this person will be caught and justice is provided for all the victims concerned. These are cowardly attacks so I would urge anyone to forget any loyalty they may have with this person to come forward and make contact with the Detective Sergeant Garry Poole or Detective Constable Patrick McHale based in the Robbery Squad at Hammersmith on 020 8246 2678. Call crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous."

4 February 2010