Police are investigating an incident in which a unit in Allchurch Street was unlawfully entered while the occupant was at home.

Superintendent Michael Murphy said the 42-year-old female victim rang police after a male walked into her home and snatched her handbag just before 7.30pm.

“The victim is a woman who is wheelchair-bound and she was waiting for her carers when the incident occurred.,” Supt Murphy said.

“She had left the sliding glass door partially open to allow her dogs access to the yard and this was the entry point the offender used.

“The woman was watching television when a male walked into her unit through the open door. He grabbed her handbag, which was sitting on the coffee table in front of her, and then left  the same way.

“This is clearly a cowardly and opportunistic incident targeting a vulnerable woman, however, once again it highlights the need to secure your premises even if you’re at home. I would urge anyone who notices any suspicious behaviour to contact police immediately.”

The offender is described as being a juvenile male of Aboriginal appearance with a thin build and approximately 160cm tall. He was wearing long dark blue shorts and a black singlet which he pulled up to cover his face when he confronted the woman.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen someone matching the offender’s appearance to phone 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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