Handbag-snatch duo strike in terror assault

A WOMAN was robbed of her handbag when two hoodies lurking in Matalan car park launched a terrifying broad-daylight attack.

The 48-year-old victim was walking to her car after work when she was pushed from behind, causing her to fall forwards and bruise her knees.

The thugs then snatched her handbag and fled with her purse and bank cards which they then used to withdraw hundreds of pounds from cashpoints in Clarksfield. They also attempted to take money out of the ATM at Lees Post Office.

Both men are Asian and wore black hooded tops and dark trousers. One of the tops had a silver or white oval-shaped logo on the front.

The attack happened in the car park at the Alexandra Centre at about 6.30pm on Wednesday. Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

PC Bob Carroll, from the Oldham Volume Crime Team, said: “This woman has been left absolutely terrified. It is no exaggeration to say her confidence has been shattered.

“That is why it is so important we find those responsible and bring them to justice. I want to appeal to anyone who might have seen two Asian men running away from the Matalan store or perhaps saw them at a cashpoint on Lees Road shortly afterwards.

“You may also have seen them trying up to six times to take money from Lees Post Office.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161-856 1978 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.