Two people have been arrested on suspicion of burglary after a series of elderly residents in Bolton fell victim to con by a trio.
A pair of women, described as speaking with eastern European accents, distracted the vulnerable homeowners by asking for a pen and paper or a glass of water while a man crept into the house to steal personal items.
A 25-year-old woman and 46-year-old man were taken into custody in connection with the crimes and have been bailed until Tuesday August 5 pending further inquiries.
Greater Manchester Police Detective Constable Nick Gibson said: “The culprits behind these cowardly burglaries have quite clearly come up with a plan to deceive elderly residents in their own homes.
“The fact they committed three – that we know of – in such a short space of time means no sort of conscience kicked in to say they should not be targeting elderly and vulnerable people in this way.
“That makes the offenders not only cowards but also prolific criminals. The victims have been left very upset following the incidents and we need to find those responsible and show the victims that justice will be done.”
Police have linked burglaries at the home of an 88-year-old man living on Devonshire Road at about 12.30pm on July 17 with another on Ainslie Road where a 90-year-old woman was duped at about 10.50am on July 18.
A burglary at the home of an 83-year-old man from Welbeck Road on July 22 at 10am is also being probed in connection with the crimes.
Appeals for anyone who may also be a victim of the scam to come forward with information have been issued by police who have also warned Bolton residents to be cautious when opening their door to strangers.
“If you have been a victim of this type of offence, or you recognise the offenders as hanging around your area, then please get in touch with us,” said Detective Constable Gibson.
“It is important to be cautious when opening the door so I would ask people to take a number of simple steps which can help you avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.
“Stop and think before you open the door. If possible, look out of the window or use a door viewer to check whether you know the caller.
“Ask to see an identification card and check it carefully. If you have not got a door bar or chain, ask the caller to push their identity card through the letterbox and check the photograph corresponds to the caller.
“If you are in any doubt whatsoever then please do not open the door.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Image courtesy of Pete with thanks
