Old woman targeted and accused of shoplifting
The photo of an elderly woman has sparked widespread outrage, as the older woman was targeted by police officers who accused her of shoplifting.
A bystander snapped a photo of an old lady standing outside a Coles supermarket, as she was set upon by two police officer who began sifting through her shopping to check if she had stolen anything.
Posting the photo to X, the bystander explained how the situation unfolded.
"I just saw this poor old lady get arrested by police for shoplifting food," the post read.
"I told them that I'll pay for her food and let her go and then I got threatened with being arrested for obstructing police. Boycott Coles and Woolworths."
The pictures show the woman talking with police in the Melbourne CBD as a number of items from her shopping are placed on the ground.
Commenters online quickly jumped to fury over the situation, defending the woman and calling for empathy for older people who are struggling financially.
"This is so messed up. If people are forced to steal food, we need a better alternative," one said.
"The elderly do not have enough to live on, pension rises are not covering food and utility price rises and the government couldn't care less," another said.
"In my neck of the woods, I see some elderly folk snacking on grapes in supermarkets. They are left alone to do so by staff," a third added.
"Seems like some training in empathy and kindness is needed," added a fourth.
Image credits: X (Twitter)