Distraction burglary in Wickham

Police are appealing for information following a distraction burglary in Wickham.

Police are appealing for information following a distraction burglary in Wickham.

At some time between midday and 12.30pm on Friday, August 31, the 78-year-old victim was at home at an address on Buddens Road, Wickham.

A man shouted over his fence and told him that he was dealing with a burst water main and needed to check his taps.  The offender told him he worked for a company called EURW.

The victim let him into his house and checked the taps with him. 

As the offender was leaving, via the back of the house, he mentioned that he was dealing with a cracked gas main.  The victim also noticed a second man at the back of the house, who walked off with the first man.

Later that day, one of the victim's relatives discovered that two bedrooms had been searched.  At this stage nothing is thought to have been stolen.

Police have descriptions of the two men they want to speak to. 

The first man is described as:

- White
- Aged in his early 30s
- Slim build
- Clean shaven
- Short mousey coloured, gelled hair, which is described as being smart
- Wearing a light coloured chequed shirt, grey trousers and black shoes

The second man is described as:

- White
- Aged in his early 30s
- Around 5ft 6ins
- Slim build
- Clean shaven
- Short fair to mousey coloured hair with a large curl at the front
- Wearing an open neck shirt  
                
PC Emma Purser, said: "This was a dispicable incident where two offenders have taken advantage of the good nature and vulnerability of the elderly victim, who trusted the man and let him into his home.  While the victim was distracted, a second offender has entered the property and conducted an untidy search of the premises. It is not yet known if the offenders stole anything.

"I am particularly keen to hear from anyone in the Wickham area who may have had unusual callers recently or noticed anything suspicious in the area.

"As always, I would urge residents to ensure their properties are left secure at all times, and to remember that you have the right to refuse entry to any uninvited visitors. Always ask for identification, and if you are still unsure, call the police."

Nobody should feel pressure in their own home. Police are offering the following advice to help avoid becoming a victim of doorstep crime: 

• Stop - are you expecting anyone to call on you?  Do you know the person at the door?  Don't be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
• Chain - fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.
• Check - A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it.  Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from.

Burglars can fool you into thinking they are genuine callers.  Don't be the one who invites them in.  If in doubt, keep them out!