Policing Warning Following Shropshire Distraction Burglaries

Do you know who is calling?Police today renewed warnings to elderly people not to let “water board” or “council” officials into their homes after two people in their eighties fell victim to distraction burglars in Shropshire.

Large sums of money were taken from both addresses in Elm Road, Albrighton, near Shifnal and at Berwyn View, Ellesmere. Four gold rings including an engagement ring were also stolen from the Ellesmere home.

Police believe the burglaries could be linked. In both cases, the callers claimed to be from either the “water board” or “council” saying they had to check the taps because of a burst pipe nearby.

The first incident happened between 11.50am and 12.20pm on Friday in Elm Road, Albrighton where the victim was an 86-year-old man. An 87-year-old widow was the victim of the Berwyn View burglary in Ellesmere which happened between 3pm and 3.30pm on Friday.

It’s thought two men were involved, although only one was seen at Albrighton. “Almost certainly, the caller distracted the occupier at both addresses by fiddling with taps and the plumbing while an accomplice slipped unnoticed into other rooms searching for money and valuables,” said a police spokesperson.

“These people can be very convincing and very persistent but we would once again remind people – especially the elderly – to be on their guard and not to let strangers into their home under any circumstances.

“We would always recommend that security chains should be fitted to doors. Even if strangers insist on coming in to sort out a problem, don’t be persuaded. Keep them out and then call Severn Trent Water Authority to check if there is a genuine problem, or contactl the police on 0300-333-3000.”

The spokesperson said distraction burglars preyed on old and vulnerable people causing their victims tremendous distress. “Fortunately, these type of offences are relatively rare in Shropshire. If anyone spotted anything suspicious which might be linked to either of these incidents, please contact the police.”

For more details on how to prevent distraction burglaries, visit our Knock Knock campaign pages.

Bookmark with: