String of handbag thefts across East Surrey

Detectives are hunting a prolific handbag thief, duo or gang they believe is responsible for a string of thefts across East Surrey. The thefts, which happened between October 22 and November 4, all took place in pubs and restaurants and all involved a man walking into the premises, appearing to be talking on his mobile phone. Surrey Police have received reports of nearly 20 thefts. Victims at the Arkle Manor, Buckland, Yew Tree, Reigate, Black Horse, Reigate, Watermill, Dorking, Fox and Hounds, Tadworth, Gemini restaurant, Tadworth, Heathside, Tadworth and the Spaghetti Tree, Tadworth, all had their handbags stolen by a man matching the same suspect's description. A Surrey Police spokeswoman said the suspect is white, aged in his 30s, approximately 5ft 11in tall, with short brown hair, and was wearing a striped shirt and carrying a jacket over his right arm. She said the thefts were also similar to offences at the Ramblers Rest, Chipstead, and Kingswood Arms, Kingswood, on Monday, October 25. Detectives this week released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the thefts. Investigating officer Detective Constable Karen Bradley said: "On each occasion the suspect entered the pub or restaurant and appeared to be talking on his mobile phone. “He gave the impression he had been stood up or could not see friends he was looking for in order to blend in and not attract suspicion from either staff or his victims.” Det Con Bradley said: "We have received almost 20 reports of thefts from pubs and restaurants in Reigate and Banstead and Mole Valley where handbags have been stolen. "Naturally when you are enjoying an evening meal or drink with friends it is easy to become distracted, but I would urge people to always be aware of their surroundings and other people who may be standing nearby.” She said: "Given the number of offences we are still keeping an open mind about whether this suspect is acting alone or whether a team are working together, however what is clear is we need the public's help to identify this suspect. "I urge members of the public to take a close look at this image and if you know this man, please come forward with his name, so we can speak to him regarding these thefts.” She added: "I would also like to remind people please not to give thieves an easy opportunity to make you the next victim of crime. “Keep your handbag safe at all times and ensure no-one but you goes home with your handbag at the end of an evening. “If you have been the victim of such crimes, please report it to the police immediately so we can bring those responsible to justice."