AN 85-year-old grandmother from Latchford, who had £1,000 cash stolen from her while she was travelling on a bus in Warrington, is warning residents to be vigilant.
At 3.52 pm on Thursday 16 November, police were called to reports of a high-value theft in Warrington.
The caller reported that three women had stolen a large amount of cash from a woman who was travelling on the number 2 Latchford bus.
The women are believed to have distracted the victim after following her onto the bus.
The victim said she was shocked when she looked in her shopping trolley and realised the cash she had withdrawn from the bank was missing.
She is now warning residents to be vigilant, especially when out alone.
She said:“When I lifted the lid up, everything was opened, and I screamed on the bus in shock.
“Be very careful, I have told a few people myself. I’d like to say, whether you think yourself safe or not, make sure you are. Be aware it can happen to you anywhere.”
Officers have launched an investigation and as part of this, they recently released CCTV images of three women who they believe hold vital information in relation to the incident.
Initial enquiries suggest the women could also have links to Sheffield.
PC Graham Davies said:“In the run-up to Christmas, when many of us may be withdrawing cash for Christmas presents, please remember to be vigilant and take care.
“This really can happen to anyone, anywhere, and people can have very sophisticated ways of distracting you before stealing your belongings. Some people may not even realise it has happened to them until much later.
“If possible, don’t withdraw large amounts of cash in one go, or try and use cashless methods of payment.
“Our investigation in relation to this incident is ongoing and if you have any information which might help us, please contact us via our website or 101, quoting IML-1692502.”
A fundraising campaign following the theft helped raise over £1,600 for the victim.
