100-year-old victim of distraction burglary

Two men and a woman posing as officials from the water board stole a substantial amount of cash from a 100-year-old woman in Rochdale.

Police are appealing for information after the burglary, which happened at a bungalow on Church Stile, Freehold, at about 12.40pm on Thursday 7 February.

The victim answered the door, believing it to be a friend, and was confronted by two Asian men and a woman. One of the offenders claimed he needed to check the victim's water because it was dangerous and pushed his way inside.

He then went into the kitchen and begun to test the water.

The victim and her 106-year-old sister then turned and saw one of the other offenders stealing a large amount of cash from under the settee.

The three offenders then tried to flee and were chased in the bungalow by the victim in a bid to apprehend them. Unfortunately she fell, suffering a minor head injury, and the offenders escaped down the street.

The first offender is described as Asian, about 5ft 8in tall, in his 30s, of medium build and wearing navy blue clothing. The second man was also Asian, about 30-years-old and spoke in an Urdu accent.

The female offender is described as Asian and of large build.

Police Constable Mark Challender, based at Heywood Police Station, said: "Words cannot describe how heinous and despicable this crime was. To steal cash from such an elderly and vulnerable woman is an unforgivable, disgusting offence.

"The victim was very courageous in trying to apprehend the thieves and did exactly the right thing by reporting it to police immediately.

"Both herself and her sister were badly shaken up by their ordeal.

"I cannot understand the mentality of anyone who would do that. I can only hope they have enough of a conscience that they feel utterly ashamed of what they have done and hand themselves in. If not, I would urge anyone who has information about what happened to come forward so we can trace those responsible and bring them to justice.

"Members of the public are reminded that access should not be allowed to people unless they have confirmed who they are with their identity card and if they are in any doubt refuse them access and contact police.

"It is not just the potential victims we need to appeal to but to the whole community. It's important that you look out for each other and listen to the safety messages we give out. You are our eyes and ears, and we need your help."

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4646 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Some important safety tips:

• When a stranger knocks on your door, keep it latched at all times. If you do not have a latch ask them to push their id card through the letterbox. 
• Do not let anyone into your house without verifying their ID. Check the name of the company in the phone book, and call the company before letting them in to make sure they are genuine. 
• If you have any concerns at all do not let the person in. 
• Ask them to call back when a family member, friend or neighbour is there. Genuine callers would never wish to cause distress, and would be happy to call again. 
• Finally, look out for your neighbours, and report any suspicious activity to police.