Elderly targeted in Rasen distraction burglary attempts

Four incidents were reported on Tuesday, February 23, which were believed to have occurred between 3pm and 5pm.

Two white males described as in their 20s and presenting as professionals working for the Water Board have been reported in each incident.

A distraction burglary is where the offender or offenders trick the occupants or distracts them in order to gain access to a property and carry out a burglary.

A police spokesman said: “Incident 275 refers to an incident in Market Rasen where two men approached an elderly victim on her drive.

“This was believed to have occurred at approximately 3pm.

“Both males - described as white, wearing light-coloured shirt and grey trousers - gained entry to the rear of the property without permission.

“When challenged by the victim, they claimed to be looking for a friend and immediately left the property.

“Thankfully on this occasion, no money or items were lost.”

The spokesman continued: “At approximately 3.30pm, two men purporting to be from the Water Board, visited a property in Middle Rasen.

“This relates to incident 294.

“Both men, described as in their 20s and dressed professionally, were alerting the elderly couple of an alleged issue with a water leak and had gained entry to the victim’s property without permission.

“Fortunately, no money or items were lost.”

The third incident occurred in Bardney, just before 4pm (incident 347) and involved two males of similar description, who said they had come to check the water measure.

Again, no money or items were lost.

Sadly, however in the fourth incident (incident 339), which took place at Washingborough around 5pm, a sum of money and jewellery was taken, when two visited the property of a woman in her 80s.

The victim was told the alleged water board employees needed to enter and inspect the property for possible leaks.

The police spokesman said: “If you have witnessed any of the incidents mentioned above or have CCTV footage, please get in touch.

“If you have experienced a similar incident but have not yet reported this to us, please do not hesitate to get in contact.”

Call 101 quoting incident 275, 294, 339 or 347 of 23/02/21.

You can also email [email protected] – don’t forget to include the incident number (275, 294, 339 or 347 of the 23rd February 2021) in the subject line and to direct the email for the attention of Detective Sergeant Mike Head.

Alternatively, you can call anonymously, via the independent charity, CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

Stay safe

Remember, if you’re not sure, don’t open the door.

Legitimate callers will be more than happy to wait whilst you verify their identity and the company that they work for.

Official credentials can be shown through a window without you opening your door.

If you do let someone in, never leave your front door open or unlocked and unattended so a second individual can enter without your knowledge.