Police are warning members of the public to keep their cash and cards safe after a spate of thefts.
Officers in Crowborough dealt with two incidents on Monday where purses were taken from handbags being carried by their owners.
The first happened in Waitrose and the second took place somewhere between the post office and the Fernbank Centre. Both incidents happened between 1pm and 2pm.
PCSO Chris Harrison said: "Our advice to shoppers is to keep bags closed and close to you at all times, held securely under your arm or strapped across your body if possible.
"Never leave your bag unattended, on the back of a chair or a shopping trolley, and beware of anyone acting suspiciously, such as getting too close to, or trying to distract you by bumping into you. Such behaviour should be reported to police, security or shop staff immediately."
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