Richmond RCMP’s bike patrol caught an alleged brazen purse thief in the City Centre area last Wednesday, just days after police made a public appeal for information pertaining to a string of purse snatchings in early November.

The incidents are not related.

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According to Cpl. Dennis Hwang, via a news release, RCMP responded to a disturbance reported in the area of Saba and No.3 roads just after 2 p.m. after a male wearing a black mask was allegedly seen trying to steal a woman’s purse.

The suspect fled on foot but was pursued by the bike patrol, said Hwang.

“To be able to assess the situation, quickly tracking suspects at a distance, while pedaling at speed and avoiding obstacles are some of the many hallmarks of our Bike Squad officers. It takes a great deal of dexterity, fitness, and experience. Our officers immediately formed an action plan to locate and apprehend the suspect. They executed with speed and precision,” stated Hwang.

A 50 year-old woman was able to retain her purse and the suspect was arrested, added Hwang, noting he is a youth who is well known to police.

Last week Richmond RCMP released CCTV images of three alleged serial purse thieves.

In each case, the victims were Asian women in their 20s who were walking alone. The women were approached from behind by either one or two male suspects who grabbed their purse before fleeing on foot or towards an awaiting getaway vehicle.

Hwang said the rash of thefts is a good opportunity to remind oneself of personal safety measures.

Be Street Smart in Richmond:

- Don’t display cash in public.

- Take note of sources of assistance in the area.

- Avoid isolated areas.

- If a predator confronts you, be loud and make a scene (trip an alarm, break a window).

- If a criminal wants your purse, throw it one direction and run the other way.

- Obtain physical descriptors of a perpetrator.

(Source: Richmond RCMP)

— Graeme Wood / Richmond News