Langley RCMP are warning women to be vigilant following a recent rash of drive-by purse snatchings.
Over the month of March, Langley RCMP received nine reports of purses being stolen in retail parking lots around the Langleys.
The victims of these crimes have, for the most part, been distracted while loading their groceries from the buggy into their vehicle, said Langley RCMP Cpl. Holly Largy.
During that time, the suspects drive by and remove their purse from the cart. Generally, the culprit(s) don’t even get out of the vehicle.
The suspects and suspect vehicles in these thefts have varied, said Largy. There have been reports of a small black vehicle, a black pickup truck, a newer white Jeep and a dark grey hatchback Hyundai or Mazda.
Suspect descriptions are just as varied – from a 19-year-old man in a black hoodie, to a Caucasian female in her mid 20s with curly brown hair, to two young men.
"Fortunately, no one was injured and most victims either witnessed the theft or realized very quickly that they had been robbed and were able to cancel their credit/debit cards and cellphones," said Largy.
"It just serves as a reminder to us all to be cognizant of our surroundings and safeguard our possessions. Please take the time to secure your possessions prior to becoming distracted with the ‘unloading the groceries’ ritual."
If you have any information about these purse snatchings call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200 or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.