Ottawa police are warning residents to be cautious after several women reported being robbed by a female suspect after their car got a flat tire in an Orleans parking lot this week.
Police say they're looking for two female suspects who are targeting women in the parking lots of shopping centres and schools. Six similar cases have been reported since Monday.
In each case, the female victim had a flat tire when she returned to her vehicle. A short time later, a female suspect would approach the victim to offer her help.
While the victim was distracted, police say the female suspect managed to steal her purse or wallet. Then the suspect would leave, promising to return with help.
Police say the victims only noticed later that their purse or wallets were missing and that purchases were made on their credit cards.
Police say the suspects are believed to be two English-speaking women who may be working together. One of the women is described as being about 30 years old. The other is about 50.
Police say a suspect vehicle has been described as either a beige SUV or a green or grey van.
Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to contact Ottawa police at 613-236-1222, ext. 3348 or Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477 (TIPS).
