Alleged bag-snatcher targeted 74yo in Geraldton, say police

Shoppers have been praised for helping police arrest an alleged thief who police say stole a 74-year-old woman’s handbag at a Geraldton shopping centre yesterday.

Sergeant Julie Leighton said the thief grabbed the handbag while the 74-year-old was shopping inside Centro Northgate Shopping Centre about 9.30am.

Sgt Leighton said witnesses chased the thief as she fled from the complex and called police to advise where she was located.

Witnesses also recovered the victim’s handbag and property, which was allegedly thrown away by the thief during the chase.

A 22-year-old Waggrakine woman was later charged with stealing from a person.

She appeared before Geraldton Magistrate’s Court today and was remanded in custody.

Sgt Leighton commended witnesses for helping with the arrest, while ensuring their own safety was not at risk.

She offered the following tips for shoppers to ward off potential thieves:

* Ensure handbags are closed and not left unattended in a trolley.

* Keep minimal amounts of cash inside wallets or purses.

* Be observant and aware of people.

* Report suspicious behaviour to Geraldton Police Station 9923 4555 or Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.