Police say the suspect may have been at the nearby library before the purse snatching occurred. (Nanaimo RCMP)

By Jordan Davidson

watch your valuables

VIDEO: RCMP seek purse snatcher after bold theft at Country Club Centre

Jun 9, 2022 | 2:29 PM

NANAIMO — Police are looking to identify a woman caught on camera snatching a purse.

On Monday, May 2 around 5:30 p.m., a woman sat down in the food court at Nanaimo’s Country Club Centre with her purse hanging on the back of her chair.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said the owner of the purse was minding her own business when the thief made their move.

“The thief saunters up and snatches her purse and shuffles away. She didn’t realize the purse was gone until she got out of her chair and looked around.”

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The purse was located by security a short time later outside the mall with all the contents still inside, except for the victim’s BMO banking card, which she immediately cancelled.

O’Brien said the suspect was carrying a paper bag at the time which might have come from the nearby library, and he’s hoping someone may recognize her.

“She may have also been sitting at the food court sort of as a ruse, looking to see what victim she could target.”

While this victim was lucky enough to not lose anything of value, O’Brien said to always keep an eye on your valuables when you’re in a public space.

He said this is the first purse-snatching incident they’re aware of from Country Club Centre.

Police describe the suspect as a Caucasian woman, 40-55 years of age, approx. 5′ ft.5, medium build, with dark hair and black glasses wearing a black jacket, blue pants, and carrying a paperback book.

Police say the suspect may have been at the nearby library before the purse snatching occurred. (Nanaimo RCMP)

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow