16/02/10 Thame distraction burglary linked to others in the county

THE police believe that the distraction burglary in Queens Close, Thame, over the weekend, is linked to two others in Oxfordshire.

The burglaries, all targeting elderly people, took place this weekend in Bicester, Oxford, Kidlington and Thame, and they all involved men pretending to need to check taps, washing machines or water pressure.

Det Sgt Gavin Collier, who is leading the investigation, said: “There is no reason why a stranger should ever come into your home. All agencies or utility companies should make an appointment and also use a password system.

?I would urge anyone with elderly or vulnerable relatives, neighbours or carers to check their home security and alert them to the dangers of opening the door to a stranger.

?Distraction burglars prey on the elderly and vulnerable. If you see people calling at houses and are suspicious of their intentions, I would urge you to contact police immediately.?

Anyone with any information about these incidents should contact Det Sgt Collier at Banbury police station via 0845 8 505 505, or if you don?t want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Malcolm Wills, Crime Reduction Advisor, offered the following advice to residents:

LOCKED – If someone knocks on your door and you are not expecting them, before you go to your front door make sure your rear door is secure.

STOP ? If someone knocks at your door, stop and think, ?Am I expecting someone?? Look through your spy hole or through a window to see who is at your door.

CHAIN ? Put your door chain on before opening the door.

CHECK ? Ask for the callers Identification and check this by phone.

IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT

Leaflets about bogus callers are available from your local police station