Wiltshire Police are warning shoppers in Calne to remain extra vigilant after two reported distraction thefts in the town centre.

On Tuesday March 26, two separate incidents were reported to Wiltshire Police whereby two women had their purses stolen from their handbags and then had large sums of cash withdrawn from their bank accounts.

The first theft took place in the car park of Sainsbury’s supermarket on The Pippin between 11.45am and noon and the second took place inside the Lloyds TSB bank on the High Street between 11.55am and 12.40pm.

As a result of police inquiries, two women have been arrested in connection with these incidents.

A 26-year-old woman and a 25-year-old woman, both from Middlesex and of Romanian descent, have been arrested on suspicion of two counts of theft and one count of attempted theft. Both have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

These two women were also arrested in connection with an attempted theft from a handbag which occurred in Chippenham on the same day.

A 30-year-old man from London was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal and was released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Wiltshire Police would also like to hear from anyone who believes they may have had their purse stolen and money withdrawn from their account on March 26.

Police Community Support Officer Mark Cook said: “I would always urge members of the public to be extra vigilant when shopping and especially when withdrawing money from cash machines.

“These incidents are being thoroughly investigated by local officers and extra foot patrols are being carried out in Calne town centre.

“I would ask that anyone who witnesses anyone acting suspiciously in the town centre to contact Wiltshire Police immediately on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.”

Anyone who thinks they may have information on any of these incidents, or believes they may have been a victim of a similar crime in Calne, is asked to contact Local Crime Investigator Gary Fox on 101 ext. 728521.