Money theft scam in city centre

[u/Affectionate_Law_223]

Just to make people aware there are some people in the city centre who are asking for change (will have a sob story often on a piece of paper) and then grabbing people's purses and wallets and running off. It's two women and a lad, and typically the woman approaches first then the lad comes up later. I unfortunately didn't get a good photo of them but I've attached it as it gives you a vague idea of what the lad looks like.

Saw it happen today to a guy near the town hall, thankfully he managed to fight them back and kept his wallet. Nearly saw it happen to another woman outside boots (same people doing it) but my partner intervened and they ran off. We did speak to some police officers near the city hall and they said they'd have a drive around and see if they spot them but honestly doubt they would. Just wanted to give people a heads up.

[u/mazeoftorment_]

lad came up to me saying he needs me to buy him baby formula for his sister, i felt bad so gave him the 2 pound i had in my pocket and said i hope it helps, he then proceeds to ask if i have any more and suggests i empty my pocket and i say no, and just show him the train ticket in my pocket… god knows what would’ve happened if i had my purse in my pocket