Women are being warned to keep an eye on their purses after nine were reported stolen since the beginning of the year in the East Riding.
In March alone, seven victims, aged between 48 and 89, had their purses stolen while out shopping.
The offences have occurred in Morrison's supermarkets in Anlaby and Brough, Bon Marche in Beverley, the post office in Hessle and a charity shop and Co-operative store in Cottingham.
PC Kelly Edgar, of Cottingham Police Station, said: "CCTV stills have been released of two women believed to be of Eastern European origin who we would like the public to help identify and ultimately help us with our investigations.
"It appears each offence follows a similar pattern, the majority of the victims have left their purse visibly on show or momentarily left their bag unattended."
Anyone who recognises the people shown in the CCTV stills, above, or has other information should call Humberside Police on 101.
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