Kent Police have reported an arrest following an attempted theft of a handbag from an elderly woman in Dartford.

The incident occurred on Friday, May 3, 2024, as the victim, an octogenarian, was waiting at a bus stop situated in Home Gardens.

According to reports, a man approached the pensioner and attempted to snatch her handbag while she held onto its strap.

Swift Intervention Fortunately, a vigilant member of the public intervened, leading to the suspect’s apprehension by officers promptly summoned to the scene.

Sujeepan Mangaleswaran, aged 32 and with no fixed address, was subsequently charged by officers from North Kent CID with attempted robbery.

Following his arrest, Mangaleswaran appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, May 4. He has been remanded to appear at Maidstone Crown Court for a hearing scheduled on Friday, May 31.

The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance in deterring criminal activities and the swift response of law enforcement agencies in apprehending suspects.