An 85-year-old woman had her purse stolen after being distracted when she was out shopping.
Police said she was approached by a woman before a thief took the purse from her bag.
Officers have urged others to be vigilant following the incident at a supermarket in Fallowfield on Friday morning.
An investigation has been launched.
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On the GMP Fallowfield, Withington, Levenshulme and urnage Facebook page, officers said: "CAUTION - a Distraction Theft occurred this morning in a supermarket in Fallowfield on an 85 year old elderly female, whereby she was approached and spoken to by one female, and once in conversation and distracted, another took her purse out of her bag.
"PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE warn your elderly relatives and friends about this, and if possible use a bag with a zip on, or keep your purse in your pocket, or take whatever measures necessary to ensure the safety of your money.
"This is currently being investigated and hopefully we can have a successful outcome, but for now, please make everyone aware."
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