Heartless burglars prey on elderly woman

Temporary Detective Inspector Chris Millar said: “A man claiming to be from the “Electricity Board” came to the home of an elderly female.

The homeowner walked outside with this man as he explained that he would be inspecting electricity poles around the house. While the homeowner was distracted, three other men are thought to have gone inside the house and taken cash.

“This is clearly what we term a distraction burglary and detectives are working hard to identify those involved. However, I am appealing for help from neighbours and people who may have been in the area at the time of the incident. Those involved may have driven away from the area in a grey coloured Golf style car. Did you see a car matching that description in the Lislunnan Road area? Or did you see a group of men acting suspiciously or calling at house in the area?

“Please call us on the non-emergency number 101 if you can assist the investigation or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

T/DCI Millar added:“I would also remind people of some simple crime prevention steps we can all take in thwarting these callous criminals. Also, please look out for your elderly or vulnerable neighbours or family members and share the following crime prevention tips with them.

1. Think before you open the door and use your chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognise them.

2. Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry a photographic identification card. Check this carefully. If you are unsure, telephone Quick Check, the special free phone service, on 0800 013 22 90. Quick Check is supported by all the main Northern Ireland utility companies and they will check if calls are scheduled for your address on that day.

3. Beware of callers who attempt to distract you by claiming that they have seen something untoward in your back garden or somewhere that may encourage you to leave your house - they may have an accomplice who is waiting to act upon this distraction.

4. If you are not convinced of the identity of the caller, don’t let them in. Ask the caller to come back later and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to be present on their return.”