Police in Neath Port Talbot are investigating a distraction burglary which happened in Neath at 3.20pm on Wednesday 28th April 2010.
The 89-year-old female victim had cash stolen from her flat at Llys Bartlett in Neath town centre after a man attended the address purporting to be a council worker.
The male suspect is described as white, aged in his late 30s, 6ft in height, of skinny build, clean shaven, with scruffy black hair. He wore a grey jumper which had a pattern on the front and black trousers.
At around 2.30pm on Wednesday afternoon a man was seen walking around the back of the premises.
House-to-house enquiries have been conducted in the area and police are visiting residents in the area to offer crime prevention advice.
Acting Detective Inspector Ricky Price of Neath Port Talbot CID said: “It is likely that this individual has visited other properties in the area so we want to hear from anyone who may have been approached in similar circumstances.
“This is an appalling crime against an elderly resident who is being supported by her family.
“I would appeal to anyone with information about the suspect or the person who was seen acting suspiciously just prior to this incident to come forward. The smallest piece of information may be of vital importance to the investigation.”
Police are advising residents to follow the Police Doorstep Code and not allow any strangers into their homes.
Distraction burglars use a variety of tactics to deceive the victim to get into their home to steal valuables. They often claim to be from the water board, electricity company, local council or other organisations and they will try to pressurise or confuse the person who answers the door.
When a stranger calls at your door, follow the Police Doorstep Code:
- When someone unexpectedly calls at your door, take a look out of the window. If you do not recognise them, don’t open your door to them.
- Make sure both your front and back doors are locked.
- Attract the caller to a secure and locked window and display your Nominated Neighbour Scheme card (available from the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership).
- If you do not have a card, ask them to post their details through your door but do not open your door.
- If you don’t know them, ask them to leave.
- If the person refuses to go away, ring South Wales Police immediately on 101 and report it to them. Try to provide a description of the person, vehicle or anything else suspicious.
- Talk to your family and friends about this caller and consider talking to your neighbours about any suspicious activity just in case the same scam is tried on them.
Sergeant Tony Powe of the Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership added: “We would encourage residents, especially the elderly, to be suspicious of callers to and to be aware of doorstep crime.
“I would also appeal to members of the community to look out for the more vulnerable members of society to ensure they are safe in their homes.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
