Warning after cash stolen from elderly man in Gravesend distraction burglary
11:01, 29 August 2019
updated: 11:08, 29 August 2019
Residents are being warned to be vigilant following reports of a distraction burglary.
Two men are reported to have attended an address in Rochester Road, Gravesend at around 2.15pm on Tuesday and asked an elderly man if they could inspect his roof having previously carried out work on it several years ago.
They then asked the victim to open the back gate so they could move their vehicle into the garden - but when he returned to the front door he found both men had disappeared along with a quantity of cash he had kept in a money box.
Inquiries have established the men were not from the same contractor the victim used for his roof repair and officers are warning residents to be wary of this particular technique.
Sergeant Carli Deacon, from Kent Police’s Gravesham Community Safety Unit, said: "Offenders of this nature unfortunately tend to target elderly people and I would encourage all residents to be vigilant and look out for their neighbours and loved ones.
"I would also urge people not to let strangers into their home unless they can independently confirm their identity and not accept any unsolicited offers for work to be carried out on the spot.
"If you are ever unsure, ask them to come back at another time when friends or family are around to offer support, and close the door. Further safety advice is available on our website - www.kent.police.uk."
At present no arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Kent Police appeal line for Dartford on 01474 366 149 quoting reference 27-0965.
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555 111.
