Witness appeal after Northfield distraction burglary

West Midlands Police are asking residents to be vigilant as they appeal for information after an elderly woman fell victim to a distraction burglary in her Northfield home on Tuesday (21st March).

The incident happened at around 2.30pm when a man managed to talk his way into the Frankley Beeches Road home of the woman, in her 80s, before making off with cash and personal belongings.

The man is described as:

• White
• 40s
• ‘Beer belly’
• Bandage to left hand

When asked for I.D, the man made excuses and was allowed into the home.

Please warn and look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours, family and friends.

If you saw or heard anything or have any information about the incident please call West Midlands Police on 101, quoting the reference number BW/58956Q/17. If you witness any suspicious behaviour, please call 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Advice

Please remain vigilant and check on vulnerable and elderly family members, friends and neighbours. Make sure they know how to keep safe and get help if needed.

• Don’t answer the door to people you don’t know if you don’t feel safe – use a spy hole if you have one, or check through a front window. Never feel embarrassed to refuse to answer the door or let strangers in.
• Use a door chain if you do open the door.
• Don’t feel embarrassed to call the policeto report any concerns or suspicious behaviour.
• If you don’t know the caller, ask to see their identity card. Check it carefully, and keep the chain on while you do this. Genuine callers won’t mind if you close the door while you check. If in doubt, telephone the organisation to verify they are genuine by using a number from the telephone directory and not a number given to you by the caller.
• If you’re still unsure of a caller, ask them to come back at a pre-arranged time, then have someone with you. If they’re genuine, they won’t mind.
• Beware of being distracted by one person while another steals your property – make sure other doors into your home (side, back) are locked while you are at the front door.
• If in doubt, keep them out. Phone the police on 101 if you are worried and in an emergency dial 999.
• Please share this advice with elderly or vulnerable friends, neighbours and relatives and check on them regularly.