Press releases

Police repeat warning about distraction burglars

Police have issued a warning following a distraction burglary in Minehead – just days after another incident in Somerset.

In the latest event an 87-year-old woman was in the rear garden of her bungalow in Luttrell Gardens when she was approached by a man claiming to work for water board, who asked to test her water, after receiving a complaint from a neighbour. No identification was shown or name given.

The man followed the woman into her kitchen and turned a tap on, after which he moved to the bathroom where he did the same, while the victim remained in the kitchen. The man walked between the two rooms several times and then announced that there was no problem and left the property.

The victim later checked her bedroom and discovered a number of items on her bed, as well as a number of items from her drawers and cupboards on the floor. Her handbag, which contained cash and personal papers was missing. The bag was later discovered with her purse missing.

The latest incident follows a failed distraction burglary in East Somerset on November 2 when a 98-year-old woman living in warden-controlled accommodation in Shepton Mallet, was approached by a man who claimed she needed to turn her water off.

The woman who had refused to open the door to the man said she would call the warden and the man ran off.

Police praised the actions of the woman and have advised people to follow the Doorstep Code when responding to unexpected callers.

• You should look through a window or door viewer to see who is at the door first. Then consider opening the door on a chain.
• Genuine callers will carry identification cards and will not mind waiting outside whilst a phone call is made to verify their credentials.
• You should only let people into your home if you are completely satisfied about their identity.
• We would also encourage friends and neighbours to keep an eye on elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

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