Bogus water board workers prey on pensioners

Published on 22nd March 2007 in News

A campaign to raise awareness of bogus callers has been launched after two elderly people fell victim to men posing as water board officials.

On March 7, two men claiming to be from the water board went to a house on Northolmby Street in Howden.

After the door was opened, one man pushed the occupant against the wall while the other went into the bedroom and stole a quantity of cash.

Later the same day, two men went to Southfield in Newport and told an elderly occupant that they were from the water board and had come to check on the house.

The men gained entry after being initially refused and one was left on his own in the property.

They left after the victim called the water board but, again, cash was stolen.

The first man is described was around 30, five foot four inches tall, slim and with mousey hair.

He was clean-shaven and wearing a two-tone anorak.

The second man was also thought to be 30, five foot four inches tall, slim and wearing light trainers and a light shirt.

Bogus official strikes for third time in Howden

A third complaint was made about a man who visited Howden on the same day, also claiming to be from the water board.

However, he was asked to leave and did not take anything. He was described as being in his 30s with fair hair.

He spoke with a stutter and wore a blue anorak and jeans.

Special 'nominated neighbour' packs have been handed to residents in sheltered accommodation in the Howden and Gilberdyke area and PCSO Alison Pearson has spoken to the wardens.

The packs advise residents to nominate a neighbour who can check the caller is genuine and to keep their door chains on.

"You're not obliged to let anyone into your home," said Sam Lane, spokesperson for Humberside Police.