More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Elderly people are being targeted by burglars posing as water board workers.
Two women in their 90s were visited by bogus callers in Burham and Gillingham on Monday, September 30.
One of the women said a man knocked on the door of a property between 6.30pm and 7.30pm near Rochester Road, Burham, claiming there was a leak.
He ignored her request for proof of identification, entered her kitchen and began looking under her sink.
When the man left, the victim discovered money and jewellery had been stolen.
Around a similar time, a second victim in Elmfield, Gillingham was targeted by a man claiming to be from a water company who said he needed to make some checks inside the property.
While the victim did not see anyone else with the man, after he left she discovered cash had been stolen.
PC Richard Sears from Kent Police, said: "On each occasion vulnerable and elderly victims appear to have been deliberately targeted and distracted whilst another suspect has carried out searches of their homes.
"If you have seen anyone acting suspiciously in these areas please call us immediately.
"It is important for residents to remember that although this type of crime is still very rare, by taking a few simple measures you can protect your home.
"We would urge all house holders to double check that properties are secure and windows shut and not to allow anyone in their home who calls without invitation."
If you have any information contact Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/188197/19 and 46/188249/19. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or using the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org
