By Brendan Rees
Police are asking for help to identify two young women after being accused of allegedly ripping off a nail salon in Cranbourne.
Police say the women attended the store together at Springhill Shopping Centre just before 5pm on Tuesday 17 March – prior to stage two restrictions being enforced which saw beauty salons close to curb the spread of coronavirus.
The pair had their nails done, totalling about $95, but when it was time to pay, one left the store telling staff she was going to Coles supermarket while the other attempted to pay with a Commonwealth Bank card under the name ‘Phoebe Bower’ which declined.
The young woman with the bank card then asked staff if she could leave the store to “go find her friend to be able to get the money” but was refused until she paid for their work.
“The female has become agitated and then apparently faked a fainting spell,” police say.
However, once the young woman calmed down, staff offered her to leave her bag in the store while they joined her search to help find her friend in the shopping centre.
As they were walking around together, the young woman allegedly ran off from the staff members. Neither of the women has returned to pay for the salon’s service.
Police have released a CCTV image of a female they believe may be able to assist their enquiries.
One female was described as caucasian, about five foot 10 inches tall, medium build, with long red hair that was tied up. She was wearing a black singlet dress and black runners.
The other was described as caucasian, about 5 foot 10 inches tall, slim build and blonde hair that was tied back. She was wearing black leggings and a navy jacket with a white stripe.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
