CROOKS who have been preying on elderly and disabled victims across the county, distracting them with a water board guise while ransacking their homes for valuables, have been targeting homes in Comet country.
The distraction burglars have struck at least 13 homes in just three months, including twice in Hitchin, but police say there could be further unreported incidents.
The victims are between the ages of 77 and 93, with some of those suffering dementia, mobility problems, and partial blindness. In one case, burglars made away with an engagement ring from the victims late husband; in another, they stole £1,000 in cash.
Police, who have launched Operation Portage to catch those responsible, are searching for two men, who gain entry to elderly victims’ homes by pretending they are from the water board.
Three Efits (pictured) of what the men may looks like were released to the Comet today.
DI Kay Lancaster, who is leading Operation Portage, said: “These men are not targeting 2.4 children households, they are targeting elderly victims, the majority of who are on their own, and maybe who don’t have lots of family round them.
“Following these incidents, elderly people lose their trust in society, and may become housebound when they weren’t before.”
The Hitchin burglaries happened on November 7 last year – the first day police believe the men struck in the area.
An elderly couple, both 80-years-old, were targeted first, but the burglars did not make off with anything.
Just minutes later, an 82-year-old woman was also approached by the men. Again, they did not manage to steal anything.
Police are linking these crimes, as well as the others in the county, to similar cases in Bedfordshire, Thames Valley, and Lincolnshire.
They believe the men – who may follow their victims before striking – dip in and out of different counties, while travelling around the country. The last offence in Herts was just one week ago.
Police are urging residents, neighbours and family members to keep an eye on elderly people, and to report any suspicious incidents.
“These criminals are extremely convincing so if you open the door they will talk their way in,” said DS Mark Clawson.
“If you have older relatives or neighbours I would urge you to take some time to tell them not to open the door to anyone they aren’t expecting.”
Anyone with information can call the police non-emergency number 101.
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