Bogus officials steal from vulnerable householder in Peacehaven

The incident happened at around 4.15pm yesterday (January 29), when the 84-year-old victim answered her door to a man claiming there was trouble with local water supplies and he needed to check the flow from her kitchen tap, said police.

A spokesman said: “While they engaged a second man knocked at the door some ten to 15 minutes later and said he needed to join his colleague.

“Only after the men had gone did the householder realise an untidy search had been made of other rooms, with drawers pulled out and £30 cash and some jewellery having disappeared.”

Police said both men were white and dressed in black clothing.

One was aged 45 to 50 and around 5ft 2in and he wore a high-vis top. The other, in his mid 30s, 6ft and of stocky build. He wore black with scarf and a hood pulled up to cover his head.

Sergeant Stuart Mullins, of the district police prevention team, said: “We’d like to hear from anyone who recalls seeing either of these men or who were approached themselves.

“Any details of suspicious vehicles or unusual activity in the area would also be welcome.

“In the meantime, we would ask householders to be on their guard and not to let anyone past their door unless they are certain they are genuine callers.

“They should always ask to see proper identification and, if in any doubt, ask callers to wait while locking the door and telephoning their employers.

“Genuine officials will understand and not mind waiting while this is done.”

Anyone with information that may help police is asked to report details online or phone 101, quoting Operation Inroad.