Hermsdorf, March 27, 2026. A 74-year-old senior had her wallet stolen from her handbag while shopping in a supermarket. The missing purse was only noticed at the checkout.
- Event: Pickpocketing in a supermarket
- Location: Hermsdorf
- Time: Thursday afternoon, 26.03.2026
- Victim: 74-year-old woman
- Action: Investigation initiated, bank cards blocked immediately
Moment of shock at the supermarket checkout
Everyday shopping ended with a major shock for a 74-year-old woman in Hermsdorf on Thursday afternoon. When the senior wanted to pay for her goods at the checkout, she noticed that her handbag had apparently been opened unnoticed. The wallet inside was missing. After the initial shock, the victim reacted in an absolutely exemplary manner: she immediately had all stolen bank cards blocked to prevent further financial damage through unauthorized withdrawals. The responsible police have initiated an official investigation into theft against unknown persons.
Prevention: How to protect yourself from pickpockets
Supermarkets and discounters in the Jena region and the Saale-Holzland-Kreis are repeatedly crime scenes for organized pickpockets. The perpetrators specifically exploit the distraction of customers when searching for products or in crowds. Older people in particular often become the focus of criminals. The police therefore advise increased vigilance during daily shopping.
- Carry close to the body: Never keep wallets, smartphones, and keys in outer pockets, but always in closed inner pockets of your clothing.
- Close bags: Always carry handbags and backpacks closed and with the closing side facing the body.
- Never leave unattended: Do not place handbags or bags in the shopping cart or rollator under any circumstances while shopping. A brief moment of inattention, for example when weighing vegetables or comparing prices, is enough for the perpetrators.
- Do not write down PINs: Never keep a note with the secret number (PIN) together with the debit card. Memorize the number.
If you still become a victim of theft, quick action is required. Block your electronic payment cards immediately via the nationwide and free emergency blocking hotline at 116 116. In addition, inform the sales staff in the store immediately and report the incident to the local police station.
Source:
Entwendet
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.