05/02/2009 Distraction Burglaries

Police officers are advising residents to be vigilant after two distraction burglaries in the county.

The first happened between 8.15pm and 8.35pm on Thursday 5th February at a property in Lingswood Park in Northampton. Three men pretended to be from the Water Board when calling at the home of a 91-year-old woman. They then pushed past her and one took her into the kitchen while the other two searched the property. They then escaped with an amount of cash. The offenders were all white aged about 50, about 30 and the other was a teenager.

And between 3pm and 3.15pm on the same day three offenders called at the home of a 76-year-old woman in Badby Road West in Daventry. Again, they said they were from the Water Board to gain entry. One member of the group then distracted the woman and the others searched the house. The offenders were white and two were said to be aged between 40 and 50. The other was a teenager.

A police spokesman said: "We urge people not to open the door to unexpected callers and ask them to remind elderly neighbours and relatives to do the same. Only open the door if you are expecting someone by appointment or if you know them. If the caller is genuine they won't mind. "Always call us if you suspect someone - it could prevent your neighbour becoming a victim."

Please remember that there are no such things as Water, Gas or Electricity BOARDS anymore. Anyone at your door claiming to be from such a company should be refused entry and reported to the police immediately using the 999 emergency number.

Thank you.

Call the Northamptonshire Police switchboard on 08453 700700 or dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.