Arrests made following distraction burglary in Shrewsbury

Cash was stolen from the home of a 76-year-old Shrewsbury woman when a man called at her home saying he needed to check the water supplies.

While he distracted the victim, an accomplice sneaked upstairs to carryout out a search. They then made their excuses and left.

Superintendent James Tozer, the West Mercia Police commander for Shropshire, said the incident served as a stark warning to others not to let strangers inside your home, whatever excuse they give.

He said: "Distraction burglars usually target the elderly and often claim to be from the ‘water board' or some other utility company. They say that work on water supplies is taking place nearby or they need to check the taps inside - but don't be fooled.

"Whatever excuse they give for coming into your home, the golden rule is not to let them in. Staff from the genuine water authority do not knock on people's doors without warning - they given written notice about work which is taking place.

"There is no such thing as a ‘water board' now - it's a defunct title, so if a caller claims to be from the water board, you know they are up to no good.

"If you get a caller, tell them to go away and if they persist, say you are calling the police. If you are concerned in any way, call us immediately on 101."

The Shrewsbury incident happened in the Belle Vue area at around 12.30pm on Friday. Police carried out investigations including house to house inquiries and later in the afternoon, stopped a white Ford Transit van on the M6 travelling south near junction 6.

Two men, aged 24 and 28, were arrested on suspicion of carrying out the burglary, and brought to Shrewsbury police station for questioning.

They have since been given police bail with conditions while inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Shrewsbury police station on 101 or the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.