Train passengers have been warned to stay alert after a woman texting her friend had the phone snatched from her hand.
British Transport Police (BTP) appealed for information after the incident on Tuesday, March 15, at New Malden station.
The 27-year-old was texting near the carriage doors when a man standing nearby snatched the phone and fled from the train when it pulled up.
The incident took place at about 9pm on Tuesday, March 15, on a Waterloo to Sunbury Hill service.
Detective Sergeant Ashley Cooper said: "She stood up in an attempt to stave him off, but he was able to prise it from her grasp before making a quick escape while the train had stopped."
The man was black, 6ft, with short hair, slim and was wearing a dark blue jacket and jeans.
BTP is reminding people to keep mobiles and other items out of sight while travelling.
Anyone who saw the theft should call 0800 405040 quoting reference 594 of 15/03/11.
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