STOP THAT MAN!

Chasing a Thief While Wearing High Heels

Bemusing memories of that time my bag was snatched

I wish the pursuit was as sexy as this. Image created by me with Bing Image Creator.

Picture it: Melbourne, 2018. I was enjoying an after-work feast with friends on a terrace in Lygon Street, Melbourne’s Little Italy. Then out of the blue, an individual grabbed my bag and dashed off down the street.

Ten minutes earlier, my friend, who was sitting opposite me, noticed a man pacing behind my chair. She thought he looked sketchy but she also didn’t want to judge. That could have got her cancelled.

I’d left my bag on the ground by my chair because Melbourne ain’t Barcelona and bag snatching is about as common as a kangaroo on a surfboard. Or so I thought.

Two friends and I took off in hot pursuit of the fleeing gentleman. We’d all come from our corporate-ish jobs and wore heels. But we managed to clomp down the street at a reasonable pace. One friend remained behind to mind the table for when we returned. We’d be wanting dessert by then.

“Stop that man!” I yelled. “He stole my bag. Stop that thief!” Weirdly, I’ve always wanted to yell that out while giving chase.

A waiter from the restaurant and a couple on a romantic stroll joined the pursuit.