Two handbag heists took place on the same night in Nottingham’s busy city centre, with both victims targeted at knifepoint. The incidents involved an elderly woman and a teenage girl, resulting in one fightback and one stolen bag.
At around 7pm on December 17, a 71-year-old woman was walking with her husband along Lincoln Street when two men deliberately collided with them. The men grabbed for the woman’s handbag, knocking her to the ground. Despite the fall, the determined pensioner held on tightly to her bag, forcing the robbers to flee without any loot.
Just over an hour later, at 8.25pm, the same pair struck again nearby on Victoria Street. A teenage girl was chatting with friends when one of the suspects yanked her handbag from her hands. The thieves then fled quickly towards Bridlesmith Gate.
Nottinghamshire Police have launched full investigations into both incidents and released images of two suspects. PC Sam Fowler said: “During one of these incidents, an elderly woman was dragged to the floor, while a teenager had her bag ripped from her hands in the other. There is absolutely no place for this type of disgraceful behaviour in our communities – Nottinghamshire Police simply won’t stand for it.”
He added, “The two people pictured have information that we believe could help us with our investigation. We would like to ask anyone who recognises either or both of these men to please contact us as soon as possible.”
To report information, call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 quoting incident 577 (Lincoln Street) or 622 (Victoria Street). Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police urge the public to stay alert and safe while in Nottingham’s streets as they work to apprehend these brazen handbag thieves.
Originally published by UKNIP.
