Detectives are hunting a robber who stole a handbag from a woman waiting at traffic lights in her car in Gillingham.

Officers are appealing for information after the thief opened up her passenger door and snatched her handbag containing a tablet computer, purse and other possessions.

The woman, in her 20s, was driving up Chatham Hill and had stopped at the traffic lights at the junction with Rock Avenue, at about 9.40pm on Monday, May 2, when the robbery happened.

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The culprit, a man thought to be aged between 35 and 40, opened her passenger door and stole her handbag containing a tablet computer, purse and other possessions.

There was a brief struggle between her and the thief before he made off from the scene.

He is said to be 5ft 7in, white, and of medium build and was unshaven.

He was wearing a green camouflage tracksuit top with the hood up, matching bottoms and trainers.

DS Andrew Lambert said: “We are treating this as an isolated incident and are not linking it with any other reported offences.

“We have been carrying out a significant number of enquiries but would also like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed what happened.

“While incidents of this nature are extremely rare, I would like to take the opportunity to remind motorists to be mindful of their surroundings at all times and take whatever precautions are necessary to prevent them becoming a victim of crime.

“By taking simple measures such as keeping doors locked and valuables out of sight, you can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to would-be thieves.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call the appeal line on 01634 792209 quoting reference XY/16539/16 alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.