IT IS SAD to read the report, 'Early morning snatch theft at Tampines' (my paper, Jan 15), about a woman in her 60s falling victim to two thieves who looked like they were in their late teens or early 20s.

It was reported in the local media last August that there were 88 elderly victims of snatch thefts in the first half of 2007, an increase of 45 cases from the same period in 2006.

The situation underscores the need for the elderly to be extra vigilant against becoming easy targets of snatch thieves.

They also need to be on the lookout for other types of crime they are likely to become victims of, such as physical assault, burglary, con jobs and fraud.

It would be good if the police could run more television programmes that raise awareness among the elderly, as well as useful tips on how to avoid becoming victims of such crime.

It would also be useful to teach them how to remember the offenders' facial and physical features, and how to report them or any other suspects to the police.

Although it has been said that common sense is the best personal protection, elderly people may need more help to avoid becoming victims.

The laws should get tough with and mete out severe punishment to 'predators' who take advantage of elderly people's age and frailty.

The heavy price they have to pay for crime against the elderly should make other potential offenders think twice before they act.

Mr Nelson Quah