A 17-year-old was held by passers-by after attempting to snatch a woman’s gold chains in San Juan on Wednesday afternoon.

Police said the woman was standing on the pavement near the True Value supermarket at the corner of El Socorro Road and Fifth Street around 6.10 pm when she felt someone pulling two gold chains from behind her neck.

She turned around and struggled with the teen while calling for help.

The teen managed to grab the chains and run, but nearby people chased and caught him.

Barataria Police were called and arrested the boy. He was taken to the Maracas, St Joseph Juvenile Booking Centre.

Police said the boy’s mother was notified, and officials from the Children’s Authority were also informed.