Don't Let Strangers Into Your Home Warning Follows Burglary

Police today renewed warnings for people, especially elderly or otherwise those vulnerable, never to open to door to an unexpected or unknown caller.

The plea comes following a distraction burglary in Wem, in which a woman in her 60s allowed a man into her home when he claimed there had been an explosion nearby and he needed to check her boiler.

Once inside, he distracted her by asking her to flush the toilet and clear out beneath her sink while a second man is believed to have entered the house and stolen her pension money.

The incident happened in Park Street between about 1.45pm and 3.30pm yesterday (18 August).

After the caller had left, the victim went upstairs and noticed items had been moved. She then discovered the money was missing.

PC Annie Hughes, Local Policing Officer for Wem, appealed for anyone who might have seen two people acting suspiciously in the area that afternoon to contact police on 0300 333 3000 or the anonymous Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

She also urged people never to allow an unexpected or unknown caller inside their home, whatever they might claim.

"Distraction burglars and other bogus callers are very credible and will tell you any number of stories to be allowed into your home," she said.

"No matter what they claim, whether it be that there is a problem with the water, there has been an explosion or that they need to get into your garden to retrieve something, never let them inside, even if they have identification.

"Speak to them through a window or, if you have no other option, always use a door chain. Any genuine caller will be happy for you to verify their identity before you allow them inside but ensure you get a contact number for the company from a separate source, such as the phone book.

"They will also be happy to return at another time when you can arrange to have a friend or family member with you.

"If you have genuine concerns about a caller or they are persistent, contact the police on 0300 333 3000."

PC Hughes added that distraction burglaries remained rare in Shropshire but said when they happened, they tended to happen in spates.

"Our advice is simple - if you are not expecting someone or do not know the caller, do not let them in."

For more information about protecting yourself from bogus callers, visit your local police station, call the force on 0300 333 3000 or view our online Advice Centre .

Issued: Thursday 19 August 2010