THIEVES are targeting handbags in nightclubs and bars, police warn.
The last three weeks have seen an increase in reported incidents and people are being urged to keep an eye on their belongings.
‘Handbags are now being targeted by thieves and it is not just an incidental offence but probably planned. The offenders are attending the premises with the intention of stealing,’ said crime prevention officer Bernie English.
‘Unfortunately an opportunist thief in a busy club will always take advantage of a situation and it only takes a few seconds for the offence to be committed.
‘If you need to take a handbag, do not let it out of your sight.’
The recent incidents have all taken place after women have left their bags unattended while going to the dance floor or bar.
The contents have included cash, cards, mobile phones and digital cameras worth hundreds of pounds.
Vigilance, said PC English, could prevent these thefts.
He recommended that bags never be left unattended and people going out as a group should choose a minder to look after them.
Mobile-phone owners, he said, should keep a record of the 15-digit IMEI number which can be found on the packaging or behind the battery on the handset or by keying in *#06#.
Knowing this will make it harder for thieves to sell the phone.
Additional security features on them, such as PIN codes for operating the handset, will prevent others using them and marking with an ultraviolet pen, which can be picked up free from the police station, can help identify the owner if the phone is recovered.
If you have any information about who is responsible for the thefts, contact police on 725111, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
*Police would like to speak to anyone with information regarding the theft of two handbags from Rogues nightclub, St Peter Port. One was a small black bag with a black flower and the other plain black. These were stolen between midnight and 2am on Saturday 1 March.
Article posted on 9th April, 2008 - 12.45pm
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