By Rasbert Turner, Star Writer

spanish town, st. catherine

While several shoppers flocked the Old Capital to do their Grand Market shopping on Christmas Eve, others were deprived of this activity, as they became victims of pick-pockets who were in most cases, female.

Along the corridor of French Street, to the busy market area, several women fell victim to this practice. Around noon, THE STAR was standing along French Street where shouts attracted the attention of many. "Whoa lawd woman, gimmi mi bag! Yu too thief, a two gran me have in deh. Help!" a woman shouted to a bury-looking woman who attempted to make her way through the crowd. However, she was held and given a fine thrashing by persons who witnessed what happened.

Other persons reported to THE STAR that the pick-pockets have now changed their approach. Instead of the males picking shoppers, it is now the females who are carrying out the act as persons do not usually pay them special attention, as they would the men, whenever they come close to them.

During the day, several persons complained bitterly of going home with empty pockets after their money and possession were taken away by thieves who sneakily and skilfully relieved them of the items from their pockets, purse and handbags.

In several instances, the police, some of who were on the spot, were made aware of these persons but the culprits at times played a cat and mouse game with the police.

While the lawmen were in one area, they would take their illicit activities to another section of the town. One officer on duty said he received several reports from persons who were robbed but when they went back to the area, the alleged culprits were not seen.

The business people in the area said they hoped that the matter would be dealt with by the authorities to make the area safer for shoppers.