Traders have begun using text messaging as a crime-fighting weapon.

A stolen handbag was retrieved and a suspected thief apprehended within just 20 minutes thanks to the sending of one text message in Eastbourne.

A woman alerted security guards after her handbag was stolen as she shopped in Sports Soccer in the Arndale Centre in Terminus Road.

The store has access to the Eastbourne Business Crime Group's pioneering Shopwatch radio system.

Eastbourne became the UK's first shopping centre to trial the voice and data radio system, designed to speed up crime reporting using text messages.

Before the offender had time to use the credit card he had stolen, Arndale Centre security guards had sent a text message of the owner's credit card details to all 100 members.

Vigilant staff in Sports Soccer matched the name in the text message with the stolen card and immediately informed guards.

Police arrested a suspect who was later released on police bail pending further inquiries.

In the meantime, the credit card and a social security book were returned to the owner.

Sergeant Melanie Presland, of the Sussex Police business crime team, said: "We are pleased to fully support the new radiolink which has produced this excellent result."

As well as town centre businesses, the group also has members throughout Eastbourne, including Langney, Old Town and Seaside Road.

Businesses can join the scheme by contacting the business crime manager on 01323 415411.

Friday March 26, 2004