Family of elderly burglary victim urge householders to be wary

Last week three men managed to talk their way into the home of an elderly Sally Gardens woman.

While one of the gang distracted the woman two others were able to raid her home.

When the woman realised that one of the men was in her bedroom she threatened to call the police and the men made a quick exit.

The men made off with a large sum of cash.

The woman’s daughter-in-law, described the men as smooth talking professionals.

She said: “They knew just the right thing to say and how to say it.

“They said they were from the water board and when she asked for ID they flashed something that they had around their necks. They were very convincing.

“They mentioned the recent water works on the Ballyclare Road and that there was a problem with sand in the water.

“The man put the tap on and said to keep it running and for her not to make tea, all while another man searched the home. They were very convincing.”

She went on: “We are just grateful that they didn’t touch her, she is not good on her feet and had they pushed her, she could have fallen.

“It makes you wonder what kind of person can do this to someone that is almost 90.”

She added: “One thing I would urge people to do is call the Quick Check number - 0800 013 22 90 - we didn’t even know there was one .

“Genuine callers will wait for you to check and I would urge everyone to call the it before letting anyone in.”