An elderly woman had a large quantity of cash stolen from her bag as she was shopping in Iceland, police have said.

Officers want to speak to these two women in connection with the theft, which happened on the afternoon of Monday, May 20 in Fareham town centre.

According to police, the woman in her 80s had a large quantity of cash stolen from her bag in the supermarket on West Street.

Police said the victim was approached and distracted by a woman she did not know in the store, before another woman reached into her bag and took the cash.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Do you know the women pictured?

"If you know the people pictured, or have any information that may assist our enquiries, please contact police on 101, quoting 44240212006.

"Our investigation into this incident remains ongoing."

The force shared the following advice to the public to reduce the chance of being a victim of theft:

  • Keep purses and bags closed and secure at all times
  • Be aware of your surroundings and what is happening around you when you are out shopping
  • Carry bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest
  • Return cards to your purse or wallet quickly and zip it up or button it
  • Use a purse that’s difficult for others to open – one that zips or snaps shut is best
  • Conceal your wallet in a buttoned or zipped pocket where it doesn’t bulge
  • Don’t hang bags on the back of your chair or a pushchair