Elderly warned to be on guard (From Witney Gazette)

Elderly warned to be on guard

2:43pm Friday 16th February 2007 in Witney By The Page Turner

THE elderly in west Oxfordshire are being warned to be on their guard after three more distraction burglaries, taking the total to five in three days.

Police say the incidents could be linked and have issued e-fits in a bid to catch the conmen.

Yesterday, three men conned their way into an elderly woman's house in Yarnton around 3pm.

They stole money from her and left in a green car. One man was in his early 20s, with dark hair and was smartly dressed.

At 6pm, in Dunstan Avenue, Chipping Norton, two men called at the front door of another elderly woman and claimed they were from Neighbourhood Watch.

They said they had seen youths going around the rear of the property and wanted to check that she was OK.

One offender told the other to go and have a look around the back. While the woman was distracted the men stole cash. They then left in a green car.

In Bretch Hill, Banbury, another elderly woman was targeted. Just before 7pm last night, two men forced their way into her home and left after stealing cash.

Sgt Craig Kirby, investigating the Chipping Norton burglary, said: "We have had two similar incidents on Monday, one in Woodstock and another in Yarnton.

"This takes the total to an unacceptable five in the last three days. I'm urging everyone to be on their guard.

"We have spoken to each of the victims and have released e-fits of the men we want to talk to from the other incidents on Monday, in an attempt to catch these men quickly.

"These callous criminals prey on people who they think might be vulnerable. We appeal for anybody with information about them to come forward, and I'd urge anyone who sees any vehicles acting suspiciously, to call us."

Det Con Paddy O'Grady, investigating the Yarnton burglaries, added: "These incidents appear linked due to their location and the descriptions of the men.

"These men are obviously looking to commit crime and we need information to catch them and also ask for the public to remain vigilant to prevent any further incidents.

"Improve your home security, fit good quality locks, door chains, peep holes and make sure you use them. Always Stop, Chain, Check.

"We should never let anyone into our home that has not made a prior appointment, even if they have identification.

"If they call unexpectedly and show you ID, take it from them and call the company they claim to be from for verification. If they are genuine they will understand.

"If you have elderly or vulnerable family, friends or neighbours, make them aware of the dangers."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt Craig Kirby or Det Con Paddy O'Grady on 0845 8 505 505.