SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Elderly man falls victim to conmen

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an elderly South Somerset man fell victim to distraction burglars posing as gas board officials.

Two men entered the victim’s home in the High Street area of Wincanton at about 10.45am on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

Both men, who were wearing face coverings, pretended to check the meter and carried out a search of the property. It is not known if anything was taken. The victim, who is in his 70s, was unharmed.

Now police have asked for anyone who might be able to help in their investigations to come forward. 

A police spokesman said: “Did you see two men acting suspiciously in the High Street area on Monday morning? Do you have any information about this incident?

“If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5217229478.”

Police always recommend using a door chain and asking to see the identification of unexpected callers:

If you are suspicious of a caller ring 999 straight away.

Keep your cash in the bank, not at home.

Keep windows and doors secured if you’re not in the room.

Join Neighbourhood Watch.

Set up a No Cold Calling Zone – contact your neighbourhood policing team via our website or by calling 101.

Remember, genuine callers:

Expect you to check their identification before opening the door.

Would never try to rush you by claiming there is an emergency.

Will happily make an appointment to come back when you can have a relative or friend with you.

More crime prevention advice here: https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/advice/property-and-money/burglary/ .

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