Appeal for information following distraction burglary

OFFICERS are appealing for information following a distraction burglary in Green Hill, Little Thetford.

Between 1pm and 3.30pm yesterday (6 December) the victim, a woman in her 80s, let a man into her home after he claimed to work for the water board.

While the victim checked her taps, the man searched the property and stole £1000 in cash.

Detective Sergeant Emma Smith said: “It is despicable to target the vulnerable and I would urge anybody who was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

To reduce the risk of becoming the victim of a distraction burglar, always remember:

LOCK - Is your back door locked? If not, lock it before you answer the front door as distraction burglars often work in pairs - one distracts, while the other steals

STOP - Are you expecting anybody?

CHAIN - Put this on before you open the door. If you have not got one, it is a worthwhile investment. It will give you that extra 'safe space' and barrier between you and the caller and then,

CHECK - Ask for their identification card, take it and look at it carefully. Close the door and check the number in the phone book - not the number on the card.  If they are genuine they will not mind waiting or coming back another day.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should call police on 101 quoting CF0707521217 or visit www.cambs.police.uk/report. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.