Man in his 80s victim of distraction burglary

A man in his 80s was the victim of a distraction burglary in Bury St Edmunds.

And now police are appealing for witnesses and urging communities to report any suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood.

The incident occurred around lunchtime on Tuesday, July 30, at a residence in Oliver Road.

The victim, a man in his 80s, answered the door to two women who claimed to be selling a care plan. Both women entered the home but did not show identification and stayed in the premises for approximately 15 minutes while they discussed setting up a care contract.

During this time they did not produce any paperwork or ask the victim any personal details that might be required for such an application.

It was only after the women had left that the victim became aware his house and car keys were missing.

The victim has also reported his wallet, containing cash and cards, has since been stolen, which he believes may have occurred the following day, Wednesday, July 31, while he was at home.

The first suspect is described as white, in her 40s, with long, black hair. She was wearing jeans and a dark top. The second suspect is described as white, in her 40s, with medium-length red hair. She was wearing jeans and a light top.

Police are reminding residents to keep an eye on their neighbours’ homes, particularly elderly neighbours who may be vulnerable to bogus callers or rogue traders.

For crime prevention advice regarding cold callers, visit: https://www.suffolk.police.uk/sites/suffolk/files/coldcallers.pdf

Suffolk Constabulary has joined forces with a home security company to help make properties in the county more secure. Residents may wish to consider installing a Ring Video Doorbell device which can, via a motion sensor, capture footage of activity outside their property.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact West CID at Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/45240/19.

Website – http://www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/existing-report-update

Email – Naomi.Harger@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

Crimestoppers – Contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Phone – Call 101