Abbotsford Police are warning the public about a rash of purse and wallet thefts at local stores.
Const. Ian MacDonald said there have been 19 such thefts from October to February. Of those, 16 were at grocery stores and three were at retail stores.
Many involve women leaving their purses in a grocery cart or on a counter, and then turning away, often because a person has distracted them.
MacDonald said the thefts are inconspicuous.
"In most instances, the complainant didn't know (the item) was stolen until they noticed it missing."
Video surveillance has not yet resulted in any suspects being identified, he said. Local stores have been notified of the thefts and told to be on alert.