POLICE have released CCTV images of a number of men they want to talk to after purses were stolen from Hampshire hotels.


The incidents happened at the Holiday Inn Southampton on February 12, the Jury’s Inn Southampton on February 13, the Solent Hotel in Whiteley on December 14 and 17 and the Apollo Hotel Popley in Basingstoke on March 5.


Hampshire police said hotel meeting rooms were entered and purses and wallets were taken from bags.

The stolen bank cards were then used at ATMs and in stores to steal thousands of pounds.


As previously reported, last week Hampshire police issued a CCTV image of a man they wanted to talk to in connection with the thefts. 


Now the force said officers believe there was more than one person involved in these incidents and have released a number of images of men they want to speak to.


When asked how much money was stolen and how many thefts were reported, a spokesman for the force said: "We don’t have a definitive figure of exactly how much money has been stolen overall, but we know it is in the thousands.
"We believe at this time that only one hotel has been targeted on any one day, but of course enquiries are on-going so the picture could change."


Those who recognised the men are urged to call 101quoting 44190078277, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555.