Another Guildford Distraction Burglary Triggers Police Warning

Published on: 28 Jun, 2013
Updated on: 2 Jul, 2013

A 69-year-old man had a quantity of cash stolen from his property in Guildford Park Road on Tuesday (June 25) during a distraction burglary. Following the incident, Surrey detectives are warning residents to be on their guard.

A man had knocked at the victim’s door at around 1.15pm claiming he was cutting trees in the area and asking whether he could cut the trees in the back garden.

The victim agreed a price and later went out leaving the property secure. Whilst he was out, two suspects were seen breaking into the property through a rear window. They are believed to have escaped by running through the back gardens of neighbouring properties.

A 15-year-old boy from the Guildford area has since been arrested in connection with the incident and has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Guildford Park Road on Tuesday afternoon to come forward.

Temporary Detective Sergeant Blaine Rafferty said: “Distraction burglars often target the most vulnerable members of our communities and it is important that the public are aware of the tactics they use.

“I would always advise residents if anyone cold calls at your property offering to carry out any work that you ask for identification and never to agree to anything unless you are satisfied they are genuine. If you have any suspicions about someone calling at your home then do not hesitate to contact police.

“Although we have made an arrest in connection with the incident in Guildford Park Road, I am still appealing for anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious to come forward.”

Anyone with information about this offence or who has received such a suspicious caller at their address is asked to call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference GD/13/5406.

Surrey police also offered the following advice:

Householders can substantially reduce the possibility of being targeted in distraction offences by following a few simple steps:

Remember to LOCK STOP CHAIN CHECK. Think before you open the door – use your chain and spy hole and look out of the window to see if you recognise the caller.
Utility companies now offer a password identification system. Any caller from one of these companies should be able to give you a prearranged password as additional proof of identity.
Beware of callers who attempt to distract you by claiming that they have seen something untoward in your rear garden or somewhere which may encourage you to leave your house – they may have accomplices awaiting this distraction.
If you are not convinced of the identity of the caller, don’t let them in. Ask the caller to come back later and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to be present on their return or ask the caller to contact this person.
Remember a genuine caller won’t mind waiting while you check their identity thoroughly.
Please look out for your elderly relatives and neighbours as these criminals identify them as an easy target.
Treat every stranger with caution, if you are still worried dial 999 immediately and ask for the police.