Heavily pregnant mum chased down thief in 50m dash

 

A woman who was nine months’ pregnant had her backpack stolen while she was in the toilet of a supermarket. (AFP pic)

SHAH ALAM: A woman, who is nine months’ pregnant, ran 50 metres after a thief who had snatched her backpack while she was in the toilet at a supermarket in Section 23, here, last night.

The quick reaction of the 37-year-old mother of two paid off when the 22-year-old suspect was caught with the help of members of the public who heard the victim’s screams.

Shah Alam police chief Iqbal Ibrahim said police received a report at 10.57pm from the woman who worked as a factory operator.

He said in the incident, the victim had gone to the supermarket alone to shop for maternity items.

“While the victim was in the women’s toilet, someone snatched her backpack which she had hung on the door of the cubicle.

“The victim rushed out of the toilet to give chase and her cries for help caught the attention of passersby who helped to catch the suspect who was still holding on to the woman’s backpack,” Iqbal said.

He said the pregnant woman was unharmed but had been admitted to the Shah Alam Hospital to wait for the birth of her third child.

Iqbal said the suspect, who worked at a water filter company, had criminal records for four offences related to crime and drugs.

“The suspect is now remanded for three days (until May 2) and the case is being investigated under Section 380 of the Penal Code for theft which can lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine if convicted,” he said.

Those with information about the incident are urged to contact the assistant investigating officer, Fairunizam Puasa, at 013-6616845. - FMT