Category: Suffolk Constabulary

Detectives are appealing for information following an attempted distraction burglary at a home on Ipswich Road, Helmingham between 7.45pm and 7.50 pm on Monday 18th August.

A gentleman in his 70s answered a knock at the door, where he found a male in his 20s. The male asked if he could check the victim’s water supply as he was building flats in the local area. This arose suspicion in the victim who promptly sounded his personal alarm.

At this point another male appeared from the hedge and they both ran away in the direction of Ashbocking.

Detective Inspector David Rutterford from Mid Suffolk CID said: “I commend this gentlemen’s actions. He did absolutely the correct thing by sounding his alarm, which scared the offenders off. Distraction burglary is a despicable crime, which preys on elderly members of our society. I would urge residents not to let strangers into their homes without checking their identification and to alert police immediately using 999 if they are suspicious.”

Were you in the area at the time? Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident or the offenders to call Stowmarket CID on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers are also reminding residents not to let strangers into their homes without checking their identification and to alert police immediately using 999 if they are suspicious.