Two arrests made over suspected robberies against elderly women in Taunton
Police have been questioning two suspects from Bristol
Two men have been arrested after two reported robberies targeting elderly women occurred on Taunton streets within a thirty-minute timeframe.
Police say the alleged incidents took place between 3.30pm and 3.45pm on Monday, 27th April.
In the first one, a woman in her sixties was robbed of several necklaces on Hammet Street, resulting in neck injuries.
Approximately 10 minutes later, a gold chain was stolen from a lady in her nineties at Victoria Gate, although she did not suffer any injuries.
Two men reportedly fled the scene in a car.
Officers, aided by Somerset Council's CCTV staff, roads policing units, Gwent Police, and the National Police Air Service helicopter, swiftly investigated and arrested two men in Newport, Gwent, by 5.20pm on the same day.
Police also seized suspected stolen gold jewellery.
A man in his twenties from Bristol was arrested on suspicion of robbery and driving offences, while a second man in his late teens, also from Bristol, was arrested on suspicion of robbery.
Both individuals remain in police custody.
Immediate Community Response
Neighbourhood Inspector Steve Jones emphasised the impact of such crimes, saying: “This sort of crime causes concern in our communities, but it’s highly unusual to see older people targeted in this way."
Inspector Jones further acknowledged the swift action taken by the public and Somerset Council's CCTV team, stating, “Thanks to prompt action from members of the public calling 999 and support from Somerset Council’s CCTV team we do now have suspects in custody, so if you have any information and are yet to speak with us, do please get in touch.”
Police are urging anyone with information or footage of the incidents in Taunton to come forward.