Bogus caller targets 98-year-old

A bogus caller called at the home of a 98-year-old woman in Shawclough, claiming to be from the 'electric board'.

When the pensioner refused him entry, it is thought he climbed into the bungalow through her rear bedroom window.

He then searched various rooms. It is not known if anything was stolen.

Before leaving he sprayed a liquid on the inside and outside of the window and windowsill. The liquid appears to be corrosive and has damaged paint work and the windowsill.

At about 11am on Tuesday 22 June 2010, police were called tothe house, on Fallowfield Drive, Shawclough.

The intruder is described as a white man who claims he work for the electric board.

Detective Constable Lesley Nolan, of the Volume Crime Team, said: "I believe the offender has used this liquid in an attempt to cover his tracks and avoid identification.

"I want to warn him, and reassure residents, that I will do all I can to catch him.

"The victim has done all the right things by not letting this lowlife thief into her home, sadly that has not stopped him breaking in and causing understandable concern to her and her neighbours.

"I cannot stress enough the importance of not letting strangers into your home and if you are in any doubt whatsoever call the police."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Volume Crime Team on 0161 856 8635 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.



Tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of bogus callers:

- Remember to keep all external doors locked at all times, whether you are at home or not.

- Stop and think before you open the door. If possible, look out of the window or use a door viewer (spy-hole) to check whether you know the caller.

- If you have a door bar or chain put it on before opening the door and don't open the door until you are happy with the caller's identity.

- If you have not got a door bar or chain, ask the caller to push their identity card through the letterbox, then check the photograph corresponds to the caller.

- If you still have any doubts, ask them to call back when either a family member, friend or neighbour can be present. Genuine callers would never wish to cause distress, and would be happy to call again.