Police are looking for a thief behind a series of handbag and purse snatches at the Corio Shopping Centre.

There've been at least nine thefts in the centre car park since February 24.

Police say most of the offences happened while the owners of the bags were distracted.

The offender’s described as being around 20 with an olive complexion.

Meantime a couple from Colac have been arrested over the theft of a handbag at Adventure Park last month.

Police allege credit cards from the stolen bag were used to buy more than $4500 worth of goods in Geelong less than an hour after the theft.

A 32-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man will face court in May.

Anyone with information on the Corio thefts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.

Picture: The car park at Corio Shopping Centre