WOMEN shoppers are being targeted by pickpockets in supermarkets and shops in a Kent town, say police.

A total of 21 incidents have been reported in Ashford town centre since May of this year. Fifteen of the victims have been aged between 64 and 96.

Ashford police believe that the women are chosen because they are elderly and vulnerable.

“It is possible that the offenders target their victims and watch and follow them from shop to shop until the offenders have the perfect opportunity to steal from them.” said Det Sgt Bruce Hills, of the Crime Management Unit at Ashford.

The majority of the victims have had handbags that have been worn over their shoulders, and in many cases the handbags have not been securely zipped up.

The offenders wait until the victim is distracted and remove the purse from the handbag without it being noticed.

Often the theft is only discovered when the women want to pay for goods.

“We believe that the offenders are two young white women, and have been studying CCTV footage of the town to confirm this," said Sgt Hills.

“However, we urge all shoppers to make sure that their handbags are zipped up at all times, and are held under arms if possible. Be aware of who is around you, especially in crowded shops and supermarkets.”

Anyone with information with regard to the thefts is asked to contact Ashford Police station on 01233 619167. Alternatively call Crimestoppers Hotline on 0800 555111.