Market Drayton police warning after woman's handbag stolen at work
A woman had her handbag stolen while she was at work, Market Drayton police have warned. Her bank card was later used to withdraw money.
Officers from Market Drayton are warning people not to be complacent and to watch their belongings after a number of fraud offences occurred in the town.
Constable Mick Sturland, of West Mercia Police's safer neighbourhood team for Market Drayton, said the offender took the victim's handbag and used a card to withdraw money.
He said: "There have been a number of recent fraud offences in the town. Among these were fraud offences involving money being withdrawn without the consent of the card holder.
"One of these occurred when the offender took the victim's handbag while she was at work. Clearly, you need to ensure you keep a tight hold of your bag at all times and try not to be complacent.
"We also had a call from elderly residents stating they believed they were called by a fraudster claiming to be a police officer.
"Luckily they didn't divulge any important information but it shows the methods these tricksters will use to convince you to part with sensitive information such as bank accounts and passwords.
"Police will never request any of these over the phone.
"In fact, if you're ever in any doubt as to the validity of a call from someone purporting to be a police officer, ask for a return telephone number.
"It shouldn't be a mobile number but a main switchboard number. Alternatively you can dial 101 and ask if that officer is who he or she says."
