Cars stolen by thieves targeting women’s purses in locker rooms, RCMP say

A woman's purse is seen in this image. (Credit: Shutterstock)

A spate of thefts from women’s locker rooms in northern B.C. prompted a warning from local authorities Tuesday.

The Prince George RCMP said women’s bags are being “targeted” when they are left unattended or in unlocked lockers in communal change rooms at local fitness facilities.

“In addition to wallets and other personal belongings being taken, in two of the incidents, the victims’ cars have been stolen from the adjacent parking lots,” a statement from Mounties said.

“The suspect or suspect(s) know what they are looking for and know how to gain access to these items. The thefts are done quickly.”

An investigation into the incidents is ongoing, but police urged people to be vigilant about locking up their personal belongings in change rooms.

Anyone who has been the victim of a theft of this nature and has not reported it is being asked to contact police, as is anyone who experiences a similar incident going forward.

“This information is essential in helping identify suspects and detect any emerging patterns or trends,” the statement from the Prince George RCMP concluded.