Police warn about distraction burglars (From This is The West Country)

Police warn about distraction burglars

3:00pm Saturday 22nd September 2012 in Somerset By Newsdesk

DISTRACTION burglars don't break into homes but turn up unannounced and persuade owners to invite them in before stealing belongings, say police.

A warning has gone out to residents to be on their guard when not expecting a visitor, and police have issued a message – ‘If you're not sure, don't open the door’.

Bogus 'officials' may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, a gas company, health authority or other organisation. Their real purpose is to talk their way into a home to see what they can steal.

Bogus 'dealers' may offer to buy antiques, furniture or jewellery, at what seems to be a good price. Chances are they're trying to trick homeowners into selling something for a lot less than it is worth.

Bogus 'workmen' may say they need to come in to make urgent repairs and police are warning residents to be careful of callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac the drive.

Often they'll ask for money in advance; they may even offer to drive victims to the bank to withdraw money to pay them. They could then simply disappear, or do a poor job very expensively.

THINK 'thief' – ask to see an identity card and check it closely. Always call the company your visitor claims to be from, using a number from the telephone directory or a bill to verify whether the caller is genuine.

Call 999 and tell police and neighbours.