Crime-busting organisation Crime Stoppers last night appealed for people to come forward with information following yet another handbag snatch.

The charity has launched a campaign entitled `Watch Out For That Rat' in a bid to make the public more aware about the bag thefts and to encourage people to call Police.

The appeal came after a 64 year-old tourist became the latest victim of handbag snatchers on Wednesday night.

The woman said she got off a bus on York Street in St. George's with a group of friends shortly after 8.30 p.m.

She told Police that she noticed an unknown man following closely behind them, and said that as they approached the St. George's Club the man grabbed her fanny pack from her hand and fled.

One of the men in the party attempted to stop the thief but fell to the ground, sustaining minor abrasions to his arms, as a result.

The stolen pack contained travellers cheques and other personal items.

Crime Stoppers co-ordinator Alex MacDonald appealed for the community to pull together to catch the thieves who have left a number of victims in their wake.

He said: "The public can help to catch these handbag snatchers if they call Police or Crime Stoppers with any information they have, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

"If they witness a theft taking place, descriptions and bike registration numbers, if there are any, would be a help, but maybe people actually have an idea who is behind these crimes.

"I urge everyone to work together to help catch these rats.'' Since the beginning of January this year, The Royal Gazette has reported eleven handbag snatches and eight thefts of handbags.

There was also a rash of handbag snatches at the end of last year when this type of crime appeared to be gaining in popularity with criminals.

Many of the attacks have been violent and committed against elderly women.

There have also been pleas from Ministers, Police, Senators, visitors, victims and residents to stop the attacks, and for women to become more streetwise and take more precautions with their personal safety.

Criticisms have been aimed at Police as well as the Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV), which are intended to discourage this type of activity and make the general public feel safer.

Police have asked anyone who may have witnessed the events leading up to the theft on Wednesday to contact Eastern CID at 293-1940.

Alternatively, people can give information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1-800-623-8477.