Distraction Burglaries

Good morning all

Having just returned from my holidays I am concerned that there have been some distraction burglaries across our area in past couple of weeks and need to make you aware:

Western Avenue, Peterborough - Reported to the police on 25th September but occurred some 8 weeks ago - Western Avenue, elderly lady had visit from male claiming to be from Mears, working for Council - when asked for ID he had none but she let him in anyway - it is only now she has noticed that some jewellery is missing - my colleague who covers this area is working with Cross Keys to ensure all their residents are made aware about checking ID for any workmen.

High Street, Glinton - 22nd September - elderly blind lady thought caller was from Cross Keys to mend a smoke alarm, when the real repair workman turned up it was apparant the first male was a thief and jewellery had been taken

Silver Street, Woodston - 16th September - asian male claiming to be part of Government Scheme to save energy wanted access to enter loft - when told husband would be back soon he appeared agitated and left - police attended as it was believed he had called at several houses - it was confirmed that he was working for a local insulation company but carried no ID - strong words of advice were given by the police to both the company and this individual - it just reinforces the message about checking for ID

If you are in contact with elderly or vulnerable people please try to reinforce the message about questioning any caller and asking for ID - if they are not expecting callers I would encourage them not to even open the door until the caller has proved their identity.

If you have concerns or would like advice from our team then please get in touch

Kind regards

Carol Aston

Community Safety Unit Northern Division

Cambridgeshire Police

(C) Park Farm Neighbourhood Watch Peterborough UK Tel: 01733 345581 Broadcasters direct call ISDN 'down the line' 01733 555319 Codecs G722 & APT Press Enquiries 01733 345581