Ensure you don’t fall victim to town’s busy pickpockets

Aug 27 2008 by Shona Mitchell, East Kilbride News

A CALDERWOOD pensioner is urging women to be wary of people trying to steal purses.

The 69-year-old was shopping in Sainsbury’s store at the Kingsgate Retail Park on Sunday afternoon when two men tried to steal her purse.

She said: “I was looking at something and then a tall man who was standing behind me shoved me and before I knew what was happening I noticed another man had unzipped my bag and was trying to steal my purse.

“I screamed and they ran off but I was terrified and shaking. I could barely even drive home afterwards.

“Since it has happened, a few people have told me they have known other people it has happened to and I just want to urge people to be extra vigilant.

“I have barely eaten since it happened as I’m in a state of shock and wouldn’t like anyone else to feel this way.”

Some months ago the News ran an article warning people to keep a close watch on their personal belongings after a spate of ‘bag dipping’ in the town.

Police know of several incidents in the town where elderly residents have fallen victim to pickpockets.

All the incidents have taken place in shops, where one person approaches and distracts the victim - sometimes by asking a question - while another grabs the opportunity to take a bag or purse.

The police advise: If you are carrying a bag, make sure it is firmly closed and cannot be tampered with; keep a close eye on your purse, wallet and purchases when you are out shopping; don’t carry large sums of cash — where possible pay by debit or credit card and make sure it is within your view at ALL times. You should also never carry your pin number with your cash card.