British Transport Police (
BTP▸ ) officers are appealing for the public^s help after the theft of a passenger^s suitcase from a train which had arrived at Plymouth railway station.
Officers have released
CCTV▸ images of a woman they believe will have information which can assist the investigation into the incident, which took place at about 3.15pm on Friday, June 13.
C Steve Kelley said: ^The victim, a 65-year-old woman from Newquay, left her pink suitcase in the luggage racks on board the 1408hrs Exeter St Davids ^ Penzance service.
^She noticed her luggage was missing after the train departed from Par station.
^Enquiries have been ongoing to identify the person responsible for the theft but to no avail. I am now appealing for anyone who recognises the woman in these photographs to come forward as I believe she will have key information which can assist this investigation.^
Anyone with information is asked to call British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
In all calls, please quote incident reference GSUB/B3 of 08/07/14.
This appeal follows BTP^s launch of Operation Magnum, a crackdown on theft of passenger property on the railway. As part of the initiative, officers have issued video clips to help the travelling public spot the most common tricks thieves use.
Op Magnum sees BTP officers work with train operating companies and local police forces to disrupt and deter pickpockets who prey on unsuspecting commuters and tourists at busy stations, thieves who brazenly snatch expensive smartphones and tablets from distracted passengers^ hands and those who steal luggage and valuables on trains.
Videos featured on the Op Magnum website (
www.btp.police.uk/theft) and the BTP YouTube channel show passengers the 13 most common tricks thieves use, while anti-theft surgeries will see passengers handed crime prevention leaflets with advice on how to protect themselves from thieves.
There are a number of other steps people can take to keep their property as safe as possible when on the rail network.
^ Keep purses secure and carry wallets in an inside pocket ^ Zip up hand and shoulder bags ^ Carry bags in front of you, with flaps against your body ^ Keep straps short and bags tucked under your arm ^ Don't display jewellery, mobile phones and MP3 players ^ Don't show your money - keep it safely in your pocket ^ Stay alert and aware of what's going on around you when using your phone in public ^ Keep your luggage close by and check it regularly If you think your property has been stolen: ^ Stay calm and don't panic. Report it to a member of transport staff or a police officer straight away ^ Report a theft on the railway or London Underground to British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. In an emergency, always dial 999.
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