Shoppers urged to be vigilant after handbag thefts in Bognor

A number of thefts from handbags in shops and supermarkets across Sussex has led to a warning from the county police force.
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The Sussex Police warning comes after a number of thefts in Bognor this month, including two reported incidents at Morrisons supermarket in Bedford Street — one on Wednesday January 2 and one on Sunday January 6.

A Morrisons spokesman said a purse was stolen at 9.30pm on January 2, whilst a handbag was reported as stolen at 1.20pm on January 6.

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Police also confirmed the theft of a Bognor mum's handbag from a pushchair in either M&Co or Clarks in London Road on Saturday January 5.

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Police

Sussex Police said, due to a recent spate of thefts from handbags in supermarkets across East and West Sussex, it is urging members of the public out shopping to be vigilant.

The force also stressed that shoppers should keep all handbags and purses with them at all times and not leave their possessions in trolleys and baskets unattended.

A spokesman added: "Members of the public are also being made aware of distraction methods by suspects working in groups, whereby shoppers are followed into car parks.

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"Once the handbag has been placed in the car by the unsuspecting shopper, one suspect will distract the owner / driver, while others open the passenger door, remove the purse from the bag but not the handbag."

Have you been a victim of theft whilst shopping recently? Let us know by giving us a call on 01243 543166 or leaving a comment on our Facebook page.