CCTV released after luggage theft on train at Ludlow

Investigating officer PC Dave Hall said: “The victim – a 30-year-old woman from Glasgow – was travelling on a Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Central Arriva Trains Wales Service.

“As the train arrived at Ludlow rail station, she went to check on her bag but realised it had gone.

“The bag – a black holdall – contained various personal items, all of which amounted to around £500 in total.”

The incident happened around 9.30pm on Friday, 20 September. After reviewing CCTV footage, officers would like to speak to the man pictured in connection with this incident.

“We believe he may be able to help us with our enquiries into this crime and I would ask anyone who recognises him, or knows his current whereabouts, to please get in touch,” said PC Hall.

The appeal follows the launch last month of Operation Magnum – the campaign to help rail passengers keep valuables safe from pickpockets, gadget-grabbers and luggage thieves.

As part of the initiative, officers have issued video clips to help the travelling public spot the most common tricks thieves use.

Op Magnum sees British Transport Police officers work with train operating companies and local police forces to disrupt and deter pickpockets who prey on unsuspecting commuters and tourists at busy stations, thieves who brazenly snatch expensive smartphones from distracted passengers’ hands and those who steal luggage and valuables on trains.

Anyone with information about the Cardiff Central incident should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B4/WQA of 07/10/2013. Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.