Bromley Police are urging residents to be alert after receiving reports of six distraction burglary across the borough during the last two weeks.
The distraction burglaries occur when a youth in his early teens calls at an address with a man who he states is his uncle, claiming he has lost a football/toy over the fence in the victim’s garden. While the victim is assisting the youth looking for his ‘lost item’ the man steals cash/jewellery in the house.
"If you are not sure, don’t open the door".
The teenager is described as white, approximately 5’3” tall, fat with black, cropped hair. The man with him is described as white, approximately 5’9” tall, stout and bald.
Police are urging residents to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately, using 999 if the person is still in the vicinity or if they believe the suspects may be targeting vulnerable householders in the area. Alternatively call 101 if you have information you wish to pass to officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Furphy from Bromley Police said “Be cautious when dealing with any unexpected calls or visits. Be alert for stories which may be a trick to get you to leave your home, to get you to let the caller into your property or if someone appears to be attempting to distract you.
Don’t be pressured into letting someone into your home if you have suspicions about them. If you are not sure, don’t open the door. Genuine visitors will not mind you telling them to return when you have a relative, or friend with you.
Please also bear in mind that representatives from water, gas and electric companies are unlikely to call at your home without an appointment and police are likely to be present if there is a real emergency”.
