Conmen posing as water board workers prey on Merstham pensioner (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Conmen posing as water board workers prey on Merstham pensioner

2:56pm Monday 3rd September 2012 in News

Police were this week hunting two conmen who tricked their way into a Merstham pensioner's home and stole cash.

The men posed as water company workers to get into the elderly woman's home in Albury Road.

Once inside, they stole about £40 in cash from her purse, before leaving.

The conmen called at the woman's house between 6.15pm and 6.40pm on Tuesday, August 28.

Investigating Officer Detective Constable Portia Andrews called the incident, termed a distraction burglary, “inexcusable.”

Appealing for information, Det Con Andrews said: “Crimes against the elderly and most vulnerable members of our society are inexcusable, and I would appeal to anyone with information on this incident to contact Surrey Police as a matter of urgency.”

She said: “I would ask anyone who has elderly family members or neighbours to make sure their properties are secure and they are aware of the dangers of answering the door to strangers.”

The conmen were described as two mixed race men.

Surrey Police has recently issued warnings to people around the county, especially the elderly and vulnerable, about doorstep callers, and the crucial importance of checking their credentials before letting them into their properties, confirming their identities and calling the police if in doubt.

Thieves and burglars have often posed as water board workers to trick their way into their victims' homes.

Surrey Police is advising people who have concerns regarding this incident, or want security advice, to contact their safer neighbourhood team on 101, or visit the Surrey Police website at: www.surrey.police.uk.

People with information on the Merstham burglary should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference RB/12/7052, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.