Police hunt Rochdale gangs posing as professional businessmen

Detectives in Rochdale are hunting two gangs of thieves who are responsible for a number of bogus official burglaries and attempted burglaries over the last two weeks.

The first set of offenders are white and aged between 40 and 50. They are usually smartly dressed and tell victims they are checking gas pipes or other household burglaries.

The second set of offenders are also white and aged between 30 and 35 years old. One of the men is of slim build and wears metal-framed glasses while the other is well built and about 6ft 2in tall. The men usually target their victims in the evening or late at night and sometimes claim to be police officers. They also tell the residents there is some damage to their property and will steal property while they are distracted.

In all incidents the offenders target elderly and vulnerable residents. Officers are investigating 10 burglaries in which cash, jewellery and other items have been stolen.

Detectives are now urging residents in the Rochdale area to be on their guard in the run up to Christmas.

Officers are also appealing to anyone who may recognise the description of the offenders or who knows who may be responsible to contact them.

Detective Inspector Stephen Earnshaw, from Rochdale CID, said: "Do not let anyone into your house unless they can show you identification. If they are a reputable salesperson or caller, they will happily show you ID and if you are in any doubt call their office to confirm they are who they say they are.

"If you have any suspicions, do not let them in under any circumstances and call police.

"We need to work together. Please look out for your friends and neighbours and report any incidents to police straight away."

Anyone with information should call Rochdale CID 0161 856 4457 or 8543, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.