Manhunt after 91-year-old Masterton woman robbed | Wairarapa News | Local News in Wairarapa

Wairarapa police are hunting a man alleged to have snatched a handbag in broad daylight from a 91-year-old woman in central Masterton yesterday.

Detective Sergeant Rob Rackliff of Wairarapa CIB said the woman is recovering from the morning attack that happened after she withdrew cash from the bank and travelled to the council buildings on her mobility scooter to pay her rates.

"As she was leaving the council buildings, a young male ripped her handbag from out of her hand before fleeing in a nearby vehicle. We believe the offender had seen the victim withdrawing money from the bank.

"Police found the vehicle in Ngaumutawa Road near Webstar a short time later, and spoke with the driver.

Mr Rackliff said the offender was believed to be a passenger in the vehicle but had fled through the Webstar grounds. The elderly woman's handbag was recovered, but without the cash.

The offender is described as a male Maori, in his early 20's, tall of slim build and shaven hair, wearing blue jeans or shorts, and a light coloured singlet, and possibly with tribal tattoos on both arms.

"I'm disgusted by this crime and I'm sure all of our community will be as well," Mr Rackliff said.

The woman was traumatised by the incident and was taken to hospital but later released. She is now being cared for by family and being given assistance from Victim Support staff.

Anyone with any information should contact Wairarapa Police on (06) 3600 300 or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.