Police Warn Of Burglars Tricking The Vunerable

Recent distraction burglaries in Brighton, Hove, Rottingdean and Crowborough have prompted police to renew warnings for householders to be on their guard.

In one recent incident a 77-year-old man , in Crowborough, who allowed three men into his house to clean windows later found four blank cheques had been stolen. The men were believed to be using a grey Mitsubishi L200 pick-up in which they had a jet wash hose.

These incidents involved the use of plausible excuses to gain entry to the homes of vulnerable elderly people.

Meanwhile, Inspector Jon Greetham said:

“It is important to remain vigilant at all times, and to never allow cold callers or strangers into your home, however convincing they may sound.”

Operation Magpie was launched to tackle burglary across the county.

Police advice to householders is:

– If you have a security chain on your door, keep it on while you check who is there and what they want.

– If you’re not expecting someone and you don’t know them, don’t let them into your home, no matter what they say to you.

– If a caller is genuine they will be happy to show you identification that proves who they are. Check it carefully.

– If you have any concerns about someone who has called at your door, call police immediately.

– If you suspect an offence is taking place call 999 at once.

Anyone who may have information about any of these or similar occurrences is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. They can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.