POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a distraction burglary in Lodge Park last Thursday (October 22).
Between 7.10pm and 7.30pm a man approached a home on Barlich Way, stating that there were problems with the water supply which he needed to check.
The elderly victim let the man into the house and showed him to the taps in the kitchen and upstairs.
Police understand a second offender may then have entered the property as the victim later discovered that two safes containing cash and documents had been taken during this time.
The thief is described as a white man of a medium build, between 25 to 45 years of age, with short dark hair.
He was believed to be wearing a grey jacket, a dark top – possibly a shirt under the jacket – and dark trousers.
It is possible that the offender may have been working with others who were in the area before and after the burglary.
Anyone with any information or who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area should call police on 101, quoting incident 748S of October 22.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
To help protect yourself from a distraction burglary, residents should check who is at the door before answering, put the chain on before you open the door as this is a barrier against unwanted callers and to beware of anyone who says they are in a hurry.
If an unexpected caller claims they work for one of the utility companies, they must be able to quote your password and unique customer number and produce an identity card – all of the utility companies operate password schemes.
You can contact the customer services department and set up a password with them.
Home-owners should make a note of their customer number, which can be found at the top of the utility bill and keep it handy – this number is unique to your household.
If you are unsure a genuine caller will not mind waiting while you call the company to confirm his or her identity.
If you’re still unsure, ask the caller to come back later so that you can arrange for a friend or relative to be present.
