Police in festive warning to public over purse thieves

Towns and cities across the county have been targeted by travelling purse "dippers" who mainly prey on older women and shoppers such as mothers with children while their attention is distracted.

In Bradford, an operation to tackle purse thieves and pickpockets began at the weekend.

Entitled Operation Shocker it sees officers from the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team targeting known offenders.

Officers will also be on hand to offer advice to prevent people from becoming a victim.

Insp Kevin Pickles, who is heading up the campaign, said: "Historically, busy city centres see an increase in reported thefts around the Christmas period.

"Thieves will try to take advantage of the large number of shoppers who are often distracted or preoccupied. Employing our officers in high-visibility and plainclothes capacities means we can prevent and deter but also catch and convict anyone who seeks to commit crime.

"We are committed to ensuring that all visitors to the city centre feel reassured and don't become a victim of opportunist criminals.

"We will be working closely with closed circuit TV operators to pick out any thieves operating in the area and bring them swiftly to justice.

"By putting the pressure upon these people, we can make a significant difference in the number of offences that occur.

"Since we initially implemented this operation in 2007, figures for robbery and theft have been lower than previous years.

"An important part of Operation Shocker is to educate members of the public about preventing themselves from being a target."

He said older people were the most vulnerable.

"Older members of the community are often the most vulnerable to these types of offences and officers will be speaking to shoppers around crime prevention.

"Some people carry photos in their purses or other items of sentimental value which can not be replaced, but they forget to protect them.

"Always make sure you keep your bag closed, carrying it close to your side with the clasp facing towards you."