Police warning after bogus callers target elderly couple, e-fits issued: Rowanfield
(GL51 - Thursday, 8 December, 2011)

Police in Cheltenham are appealing for witnesses after three bogus callers targeted a home in the town.

At around 4.40pm on Thursday December 1, a man called at the home of an elderly couple on Buckingham Avenue in Cheltenham.

He claimed to be from the gasboard and said there had been an emergency in the road and he needed to check their gas and water.

He went into the house and checked the gas and water, he then asked the residents to turn the taps on.

The offender attempted to go upstairs but was stopped, two other men came into the house but the residents insisted they leave.

The three men left heading towards Norfolk Road.

DC Jon Williams is investigating, he said:

"Fortunately the suspects left empty handed but this is a common scam to try and get into someone's home.

"Representatives of the utility companies do not need to come in to test for problems as they can do this in the street.

"Legitimate callers will have ID and will not be offended if they are asked to wait outside whilst their details are confirmed with their company.

"The most important thing to remember is, if in doubt keep them out."

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Officers are especially interested in anyone who may have seen these men, possibly with a vehicle, in the area at the time.

Please call police on the new non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Gloucestershire

Address:
Buckingham Avenue
Rowanfield
Cheltenham
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
GL51