Street thief targets pensions

Pensions have been stolen from purses

Police in Birmingham are warning pensioners to be on their guard against a female thief after more than 20 robberies in less than a month.

Some of the victims have reported thefts of more than £200, which occurred after the woman asked for change.

West Midlands police officers have received reports from all over their force area about the woman who they say is "extremely adept".

She is described as being of eastern European appearance, with long brown hair and gold teeth.

When the victim takes out their purse, the offender will distract them and steal cash from their purse without them knowing

PC Colin Higgins

PC Colin Higgins, who covers Birmingham city centre, said: "This is becoming a more common offence and we suspect there have been dozens of victims in the last few months.

"Typically the thief watch their victim withdraw money or collect their pension, then approach them and ask for change for a pound.

"When the victim takes out their purse, the offender will distract them and steal cash from their purse without them knowing."

"This woman is extremely adept at this offence and we believe she is working with an accomplice who picks her up in a car before her victims can react."

Police are now urging people to be vigilant when they are approached in the street.

PC Higgins said: "If they have been a victim, then they should try to take the registration of any vehicle the offender might escape in."