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A gang of conmen invaded a Wigan pensioner's home - stealing only a food
tray worth just £1.
The burglary happened at about 11am on Tuesday 30 September 2008 at the
victim's home on Stanley Street, Atherton.
The 79-year-old man answered the door to a man who claimed to be working
on next door?s house and needed to look at the water supply because he
was having problems with the boiler. He did not show any identification
but the victim let him in.
However, the homeowner quickly became suspicious and asked him to leave.
As he did so, he noticed two other men standing in the living room and
also asked these men to leave.
The victim later noticed that a food tray worth just £1 had been stolen.
Police are now appealing to residents in the area to be vigilant and
report any suspicious behaviour to police. Anyone with information about
the burglary is also urged to come forward.
The main offender is described as white, about 5ft 4in to 5ft 6in tall,
with dark hair, a moustache and of slim build. He was wearing a
dark-coloured suit and was well spoken. The other two men were both said
to be white, in their 30s, of stocky build and wearing casual clothing.
Detective Constable John O'Donnell, of the Strategic Crime Investigation
Unit at Wigan, said: "Please do not let anyone into your home unless they
can show you the correct identification. A reputable and legitimate firm
will always be prepared to prove the identity of a salesman or caller so
do not hesitate to call them if you are unsure.
"Residents can play their part by remaining vigilant and if you see these
men operating in the area or have any suspicions please call us
immediately and together we can stop these sorts of characters from
profiting.
"In this particular instance, the victim did ask the men to leave before
they had an opportunity to ransack his house, but they still stooped as
low as to steal an item worth just £1. Although the victim was not
injured, he was understandably upset that these men invaded his home and
his privacy and had the audacity to steal a food tray.
"I doubt they have a conscience, but if they are reading or hearing this,
I hope they are thoroughly ashamed of themselves and rest assured, we are
coming for you."
Anyone with information is asked to call Wigan Police Station on 0161 856
7255 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . |
