Police issue bogus caller alert after burglary spree

Joanne Ginley

DETECTIVES investigating a series of burglaries by bogus caller claiming to be from utility companies believe the same men may be responsible.

Six separate incidents have been reported in the north east Leeds police division in the last week alone.

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Detectives believe the same people may be responsible after similar descriptions were given after four of the incidents.

On Monday October 18, more than 6,500 worth of cash and property was taken from a house in the Crossgates area.

During the incident, the principal suspect distracted the homeowner by asking to look in an outbuilding and claiming to be from the electric board while an accomplice went through an insecure side door and to carry out the theft.

Similar thefts have taken place in the Chapeltown, Kippax, Seacroft and Swarcliffe areas.

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The man is described as white, aged about 30, 5ft 9ins, clean shaven with short brown hair and speaking with an Irish accent.

Each time, he was said to be wearing a baseball cap and causal clothing.

He also appeared to have an identity card with “water board” written on it.

Detective Inspector Richard Holmes, from north east Leeds CID, said: “The most effective way to combat this type of crime is to quickly recognise the situation and employ some simple steps to avoid becoming a victim.

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“First of all always look through the door and think ‘bogus caller’ if it’s someone you don’t recognise.

“If you have a security chain put it on before you open the door and if you don’t please consider buying one; they cost very little and are easy to fit.

“If they claim to be from a utility company don’t let them in and instead ask who they work for and request they come back later when you’ve had time to phone their company and check their identification,” said DI Holmes

“Use the phone number in the telephone directory and not one they give you.

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“Remember, it could be their friend on the other end of the phone.

“Also try to be mindful that criminals often work in twos so remember to check your back door is locked before you answer your front door.

“By diverting your attention a lot of criminals will have an accomplice who will attempt to enter the rear of your property while you’re distracted speaking to someone at the front,” he added.

“If you ever feel unduly pressured by someone on your doorstep, who is making an attempt to access your home, tell them you are going to call the police and contact us on the non-emergency number: 0845 60 60 606.”

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