West Mercia Police officers in Herefordshire are urging members of the public to remain vigilant after a number of distraction burglaries in the Shropshire area.
Officers have also shared the photos of two men they would like to speak to following the incidents.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police (Hereford Northside Safer Neighbourhood Team) said:
“We are urging residents to be vigilant after some distraction burglaries in the Shropshire area.
“The elderly victims were visited by a two men (Attached are two photos of the males) on the 8th June 2024.
“They claimed to be selling miscellaneous items (Towels, torches cloths etc) and distracted them so as to take their card and pin code.
“Should you encounter these males do not open the door or engage with them and contact police on 101.
“We have some simple tips to follow which can minimise risk to a distraction burglary and how to deal with ‘cold callers’ at the doorstep:
“If someone knocks on your door, check who it is by looking through a window or peep-hole.
“If it’s not someone you know and trust, or a business caller who has made a pre-arranged appointment – do not open the door!
“This advice applies regardless of whatever uniform the caller appears to be wearing, the ID card they are carrying or however urgent their business claims to be.
“Tell unexpected business callers to leave and come back later at an agreed time when you have someone else with you.
“In the meantime, check their credentials by calling the organisation they claim to represent.
“Do so by searching the company name and number online, or in your telephone book. As any number they might have given you could be for an accomplice of a potential offender.
“Report suspicious activity to the police. No matter how small it may seem, your information may help with investigations and prevent legitimate scammers from committing a crime.
“If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
“If you ever feel at risk, or a crime is in progress, please always dial 999.
“Thank you for your help. It is only by the police and the public working together that we can prevent and detect crime.”
