Hunt for man after three elderly people targeted in spate of robberies in Grangemouth

A hunt for a man has been launched after two people were robbed and another was targeted in an attempted robbery in Grangemouth.

The first incident happened on May 31, when a 73-year-old woman was approached by a man at a cash machine on Dock Street and robbed of her money.

Officers said a member of the public intervened and the money was recovered, but the man escaped.

Shortly after the first incident, a 72-year-old man was in his car when a man entered the vehicle on Lime Street and tried to steal his wallet.

Minutes later, a 76-year-old woman was robbed of her purse on Lime Street. A member of the public managed to recover the purse as the man made off from the scene.

Police are looking to trace a man described as white, between 30 and 40 years old, with short brown hair and stubble.

The man was also described as having an injury to his nose with a yellow scab on it.

He was wearing light blue jeans, a blue jacket and trainers with white soles.

Police Scotland said it believes the incidents are linked and is urging anyone with information to come forward.

The force has deployed additional officers to the area to conduct enquiries and provide public reassurance.

Detective inspector Yvonne Moreland said: “We believe the same man is involved in these incidents, and I’m appealing to the public for help to identify him.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw anything which may help our enquiries, please come forward. I’m also appealing to anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage which may assist to bring it to our attention.

“I’d like to thank members of the public who bravely stepped in to help the elderly victims of these crimes before officers arrived. I’d encourage them to make contact with the police as they may have more information.

“We have additional officers in the area carrying out enquiries and providing public reassurance. Anyone with concerns or information can approach them.

“Anyone with information is urged to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1144 of May 31. Alternatively, you can pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”