POLICE believe two thefts from elderly shoppers in Wirral and Knowsley are connected and are looking for two women they think are responsible. 

Two reports of theft have been reported to Merseyside Police which took place at Iceland supermarkets in Liscard and Huyton last month. Detectives believe both thefts are connected, and the suspects know each other.

The first theft took place in Huyton on Thursday, November 23 where a 75-year-old woman withdrew money from Huyton Post Office. She then went into Iceland store on Montgomery Road and while there a woman distracted the victim while the other offender stole the victim’s purse from her handbag.

The second theft occurred at around 10.15am on Wednesday, November 29 in Liscard. Again, a 90-year-old woman withdrew money from Lloyds bank and went into Iceland on Liscard Way. While paying for shopping she realised her purse, passport, sunglasses and other personal items were missing. 

Extensive CCTV and witness enquiries have been conducted, and detectives have issued CCTV images of two women they believe could assist in their investigation.

Detective Constable Chloe Browne said: “This has been very distressing for both victims as they lost a large quantity of money and items of sentimental value. It is callous and despicable to target vulnerable people for their own material gain, and we want to catch the culprits so no one else becomes victim of theft.

“If you were in the area at the time of both thefts, and saw two women acting suspiciously or witnessed what happened who we have not already spoken, then we urge you to please contact us.

“I am also appealing to the two women featured in the CCTV images, or anyone who recognises them to come forward. We believe they could hold information that could be vital to our continuing enquiries.”

You can also contact @MerPolCC on Twitter, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or ring 101 with reference  23001204224.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.