By Cimara Pearce
ELDERLY St Albans residents are being urged to take care following a spate of armed robberies in the area.
Four armed robberies have occurred in St Albans since the start of the year – all have been targeted at elderly women.
On Tuesday 13 January at 3.45pm, a 51-year-old woman was stopped by a masked man armed with a knife in Maple Cr and had her handbag stolen.
A similar theft occurred on Tuesday 3 February 4.30pm when a 62-year-old woman had her handbag stole on Novara Pde and suffered minor arm injuries during the ordeal.
On Monday 9 March at 11.35am, a 73 year-old woman was approached from behind by a masked man with a knife in McIvor Rd. The offender slashed at the woman’s handbag and took off with it.
The most recent incident occurred on Tuesday 10 March at 4.25pm when a 57-year-old woman was walking along Arthur St when she was approached by a masked man with a knife.
The victim was assaulted by the man who cut the strap of her handbag.
Police are appealing for information on the attacks but are also urging residents to beware.
“Residents in St Albans are reminded to be aware of any suspicious activity when they are out and about,” Footscray Embona Task Force Detective Senior Sergeant Charlie Bezzina said.
“Keep your handbag close to your body. Leaving it unzipped with valuables on display makes you an easy target as does leaving your bag unattended.”
Anyone with information on the robberies is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au
