Richmond purse snatchings prompt RCMP warning

The Richmond RCMP is urging people to be diligent after “a series of purse snatchings.”

Mounties say they received six reports of such incidents between Feb. 22 and March 23. Four of the alleged robberies took place in the Central Richmond area, with a further two in Steveston.

“In recent weeks, Richmond has seen a troubling rise in purse snatching incidents. We urge every resident to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police of jurisdiction. Awareness and prompt reporting are crucial in helping us address the issue effectively. We want to alert the public to the increase in these reported crimes and urge other victims to come forward,” said Insp. Michael Cohee.

Police say the suspect in five of the purse snatchings was described as a man between 5’3″ and 5’6″ tall. He was wearing dark clothing and a mask at the time of the incidents.

Despite this, the RCMP says “there is insufficient evidence at this time to determine if these alleged crimes were committed by the same person.”

All of the victims were women, Mounties note, adding no one was physically injured in the purse snatchings.

The Richmond RCMP is sharing some safety tips with the hopes of preventing another such incident.

It says if someone is after your purse or any other item, “throw the item one way while you run the other.”

“Details are critical. Take note of what the suspect(s) look like and their direction of travel. Physical descriptions such as height/weight, clothing, and visible markings like scars, tattoos, or piercings can help the police in later identifying the suspect. If a vehicle is involved, try to take notes describing the suspicious vehicle, license plate, and the stranger’s description,” the RCMP explained.

Police are asking anyone with information about the robberies to contact the RCMP at 604-278-1212.