This is the moment a plucky woman holds tight to her handbag as a thief drags her along the street before eventually running off with it.

The mugging took place in the administrative region of Samambaia in west-central Brazil’s Federal District on 4th February.

According to the news site G1, the woman, name not disclosed, was on her way to work when the suspect pounced and stole her handbag.

In the footage, the thug is seen dragging the victim along the tarmac as he tries to yank the bag from her grip.

The man eventually snatches her bag and runs off as a topless onlooker gives chase. Meanwhile, the victim gets to her feet and appears uninjured.

The helpful bystander was unable to catch the thief, who still remains at large.

The young woman, who wished to remain anonymous, told G1 that she is still emotionally shaken from the incident and has filed a report with the police.

She explained that she was on her way to work when the suspect attacked her, adding: “I am better, but I still have some bruises. I am still emotionally shaken.”

The victim, who lives on the street where the mugging took place, said: “I have never gone through anything like this before.”

She told G1 that the suspect fled with her bag, purse and two mobile phones.

A witness, who prefers not to be identified, said: “Everyone is very scared. It was the second robbery in a week.”

No arrests have been made yet as the investigation continues.