A woman has been arrested in connection with a series of thefts that occurred across supermarkets in Greater Manchester.
Earlier this week, police released an appeal for information as part of their investigation into 15 thefts involving women victims, aged between 63 and 94. The thefts dated back to January, with the first taking place at Morrison's in Rochdale.
The most recent reported theft occurred on Tuesday (April 26) at the Asda supermarket in Bury. During the incidents, victims' purses were stolen. Contactless cards were then used to pay for shopping elsewhere.
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Greater Manchester Police launched the targeted Operation Loire to investigate the series of thefts. Following the appeal, officers have now confirmed that a woman has been arrested in connection with the incidents.
The woman, in her 50s, was arrested in Rochdale this morning (April 28) as part of the police’s Operation AVRO day of activity in the area. In a statement, a GMP spokesperson said: “We're pleased to say on the back of our appeal asking for the identity of a woman in relation to a series of thefts and frauds targeting elderly women, we have received an ID that we're happy with.
“This morning officers have arrested a woman in her 50s to be questioned about these incidents. This is the latest arrest as part of #OpAVRO today in #Rochdale! Thank you for helping us with our appeal.”
Anyone with information on the incidents is still asked to get in touch with police as part of their enquiries. Details can be shared with police via DBIRochdalegroup@gmp.police.uk quoting Operation Loire. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
