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Nottingham Post
Nottingham Post
National
Phoebe Ram

Burglar claimed to be concerned neighbour to steal money from victim

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 94-year-old man was the victim of a distraction burglary at his home.

A man claiming to be a concerned neighbour, called at the victim's home in Collingham, near Newark, telling him prowlers were around the local area.

Once in the property the suspect asked the victim if he could swap a £20 note for two £10 notes. This identified where the victim kept his money.

The suspect then went into the kitchen and turned the taps on full, claiming there was dirty water coming through.

He left the tap on and walked out which distracted the victim long enough for him to be able to take money and leave.

The burglary happened at around 6pm on Monday, January 13.

Detective Constable Andrew Brownless, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Our inquiries are ongoing, including checking for CCTV opportunities.

"We’re appealing for any witnesses or anyone who may have recorded CCTV or dashcam footage to call as on 101, quoting incident number 596 of 14 January 2020.

“We’d urge people to make sure their front and back doors and windows are locked at all times, even when they’re at home.

“Distraction burglars often prey on our most vulnerable residents, tricking their way into homes by making up stories, by pretending to work for an official company or asking for help to try to gain entry.

“We want to remind people to be on their guard, especially if someone you’re not expecting – a man, woman or even a child – knocks on your door.

“Don’t allow anyone without valid identification access to your home and, if you’re unsure, don’t let them in. Keep the chain on the door while talking to them and check with the company that the person is purporting to be from.

“Our advice is always to say no to cold-callers and to report any suspicious activity to police immediately."

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