Warning After Burglary In Redditch

Police are warning residents to keep an eye on elderly neighbours after a burglar pushed her way into the home of an elderly man in Redditch.

It happened between midday and 4pm on Friday, 20 July, at a home just off Plymouth Road, not far from the cemetery.

The man, who is in his 80s, answered the door to a woman who said she had come to cut some trees. The man said he already had a gardener but the woman pushed past him, walked into the kitchen and stole cash from a drawer. She then left and was seen getting into a white Transit style van which was parked outside.

The burglar is white, thought to be in her 40s, has short dark hair and was wearing red and brown clothing.

Detective Constable Claire Johnson from Redditch CID said: "We are eager to hear from anyone who remembers seeing this woman or the white van in the area on Friday afternoon.

"We want residents to be aware of this incident and to be extra vigilant when answering the front door to strangers.

"Distraction burglars often target the elderly and other vulnerable people and they should be reminded never to let strangers inside their home whatever the reason they give.

"Unless it's a pre-arranged appointment and the caller has an ID card that can be verified they should not get past the front door."

West Mercia Police's ‘Knock Knock' campaign aims to raise awareness about the security measures people should take before they let any strangers into their home.

Spy holes and door chains should be used while a caller's identification is established and any ID badges carefully checked. If householders have any doubts about a caller's identity, they should contact the police.

Neighbours can help by keeping an eye on people calling in the area or acting suspiciously, including noting any registration numbers of vehicles.

Anything suspicious should be reported to police immediately, preferably while the people are still in the area.

For further information about preventing distraction burglaries and the Knock Knock campaign, please visit the force website at http://www.westmercia.police.uk/

Witnesses or anyone with information about the burglary should contact DC Johnson on 0300 333 3000, quoting incident 338-S-250712, or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Issued: Tuesday, 31 July 2012