Teenagers snatch 86-year-old's bag

Two 15-year-old boys are facing charges of robbery after an 86-year-old woman was knocked to the ground in Invercargill and her bag stolen.

The pair, who will appear in the Youth Court this week, were caught shortly after the incident on Monday afternoon.

A police spokesman said the woman had been approached from behind while walking down a street and pushed to the ground.

"Police cordons were initiated and we apprehended both these males a short time later not far from the scene," he said.

"Two 15-year-old youths have been charged with robbery."

The police spokesman said the elderly woman had suffered minor injuries but had not required hospital treatment.

"Obviously, she's been left shaken and is recuperating at home."

Her bag has been recovered.

Police believe the incident was premeditated, with one of the young males operating as a lookout while the other snatched thebag.

"We don't believe it was just a spur of the moment thing."

- NZPA