Terrifying new crime spree targeting drivers Mon, 5 Jul 2021, 12:52PM
Police are investigating a series of bag snatchings from front seats in Papatoetoe and Botany. Photo / NZ Herald
Terrifying new crime spree targeting drivers Mon, 5 Jul 2021, 12:52PM
Thieves are using a terrifying tactic to snatch bags from unsuspecting shoppers - and it s been captured on CCTV.
Counties Manukau police warn that thieves are blocking parked cars from reversing out of their car parks, before opening passenger doors and grabbing handbags from the front seat.
Botany and Papatoetoe have been worst hit by the crime spree, said Sergeant Nicolas Jensen. The method in which these crooks offend, they ll park their vehicle behind yours. The passenger will exit their vehicle, run to yours, steal your handbag and they re gone.
NZ POLICE/Supplied
Police released footage of a bag snatch in Auckland. He said the investigation is ongoing and police wanted to reassure the community that the spate of thefts was being taken seriously. Jensen said ways to avoid becoming victim to a similar incident included not carrying large amounts of money around and locking doors as soon as you got into the car. “Avoid being a target. Put your handbag under your front seat.”
NZ POLICE/Supplied
Police have asked anyone who recognises people in the video to come forward. Jensen said if any member of the public found themselves a victim of such a crime they should not chase the person involved and should call police on 111.
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