Police hunt suspect after series of Leeds jewellery robberies targeting women
Leeds police are investigating a series of jewellery robberies targeting Asian women, including elderly and pregnant victims
Police are urging victims to come forward as they search for a man suspected of a series of robberies across Leeds in which women, mainly of Asian heritage, appear to have been targeted for their jewellery.
Seven offences have been reported since March this year, with a number of similar incidents also reported between March and September last year. The most recent robberies have taken place in Leeds city centre, Headingley, Hyde Park, Hunslet and Burmantofts.
Police believe the offences are linked due to the similar circumstances, with the man approaching women, engaging them in conversation and then forcibly stealing their jewellery. His victims have included an elderly woman and a pregnant woman.
Detective Inspector Victoria Vessey, of Leeds District Crime Team, said it was important that victims and anyone with information came forward to help bring the suspect to justice.
DI Vessey said: “It is clearly of concern that a man is targeting women who have often been on their own at the time of the offences.
“If you or someone you know has been the victim of a similar offence then please report it to the police. This helps us in understanding any patterns to these robberies and ultimately, we want to get justice for everyone who has been a victim of these offences.
“People may have misplaced loyalties, and I would urge them to think how they would feel if it was their female family member who was being approached while alone and vulnerable and think about if this is really someone they want to protect.”
The suspect is described as a black man riding a bike, and police have obtained CCTV images from at least four of the offences.
An image appeal using one of the CCTV images was issued in June, leading to the arrest of a 21-year-old man, who is currently on police bail. However, officers continue to appeal to anyone who believes they may be able to identify the man to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Leeds District Crime via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat or by calling 101, quoting Op Beadpark.