At around 3pm yesterday afternoon (30/03), an elderly woman in Bletchley had some of her possessions stolen after inviting a man into her home who was posing as a repairman.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police gave more information of the incident as they said: "At approximately 3pm on Tuesday 30th March the elderly victim was in her kitchen making a cup of tea when there was a knock at her window.
"A male outside said he was there to look at the guttering. A few days prior to this the victim had received a letter indicating that someone would be coming to fix her gutters so she assumed this was part of the process.
"He was allowed in and removed a bottle of cleaning spray from under the sink. When the victim turned around the male was gone as was her handbag which had been in the lounge."
If you saw anything suspicious around this time on Tweed Drive, Bletchley then please call 101 and quote reference number 43210133922.
After an apartment rise in crimes like this within the local area, Thames Valley Police have issued the following advice:
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Please remind all elderly and vulnerable clients, relatives and neighbours that they should never open the door to a stranger no matter what story they are told.
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These criminals use the element of surprise to confuse their victims and the advice should be to STOP, THINK and TAKE TIME to consider what they are being told.
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If it is not a friend/carer/relative or a pre-arranged appointment, you should not open the door. You can shout through the door or letterbox or use an intercom if fitted.
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Even if there is a chain fitted, an elderly or vulnerable person can sometimes be persuaded or intimidated into removing the chain.
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Before going to the front door, residents should ensure that their back or side doors and windows are closed to prevent anyone from sneaking in unnoticed
For more information about the steps you can take to prevent doorstep crime and distraction burglary, please click here.
