Distraction Burglaries

On Tuesday 22^nd November, at approx: 18:45hrs, there was an attempted Distraction Burglary at a property in Eynsham Road, Botley. A male called at the property and told the occupant that there had been an explosion, then asked her to turn off the water at the mains and provide him with a sample of water to test. The occupant went to get the water but closed the door. When she returned the male had left.

The male is described as a white male with an Irish accent, 35-40 years old, 5’10”, stocky build with light brown hair.

On the same day two Distraction Burglaries were reported in the Oxfordshire area. One in Bicester where two males called at a property posing as water or gas board officials, then stole a purse and contents.

The second was in Witney where a male entered a property which had been left with its door left ajar whilst the victim was putting out his bin. On returning to the property the victim saw a male come from his bedroom who said he was a police officer. The victim asked for ID and the offender left. A wallet and contents were stolen.

Please be extra vigilant and keep a look out for any elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Please check on any neighbours you consider to be a potential target of distraction burglary and remind them NOT to let any unexpected callers into their property.

Remember the new non-emergency telephone number for the police is 101