LIVE: Man to appear before the courts after woman's handbag is stolen in Limerick city

A MAN is due to appear before Limerick District Court after allegedly stealing a handbag during a city centre incident.

On Sunday, October 18, gardaí were on high-visibility patrol when they were approached by a woman shortly before 9pm.

She disclosed that her handbag had been stolen by a male shortly beforehand.

A description was circulated and gardaí then apprehended a man just a short distance away.

This suspect was subsequently arrested, charged and will now appear before the courts in relation to this offence.

Commenting on the arrest, Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer at Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick city, issued personal safety advice to people out and about, particularly during the darker evenings.

Sgt O’Halloran said: “We encourage people to remain aware of their surroundings and, where possible, use well-lit and busy routes. Keep handbags and personal belongings secure and close to your body, rather than leaving them loosely hanging or easily accessible.”

As well as this, she advised members of the public to avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuable items unnecessarily and to keep phones and other belongings secure when walking in open areas.

“If you feel that someone is following you or you are concerned about your safety, move towards a well-lit, populated area or a premises where you can seek assistance. If a theft occurs, report it to gardaí as soon as possible and provide a clear description of the suspect and the direction in which they travelled.

“Do not put yourself at risk by confronting or chasing an offender,” the Crime Prevention Officer concluded.