A team of up to four burglars posing as gas engineers have been targeting elderly people across Nottinghamshire, police say.
Officers issued the warning after ‘several’ similar incidents in recent weeks in Selston, Aspley, and Mansfield.
In each case, three to four white men have knocked on the victim’s door, claimed they are investigating a gas leak, then forced their way in to burgle the house.
Detective Inspector Pam Dowson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to re-issue some advice to local residents about home security. We’d always recommend using a spyhole or door chain and, if you’re not expecting someone, don’t open the door. If you have any suspicions or concerns about someone’s behaviour, call the police on 999, or 101 if they aren’t currently posing a threat to you or anyone else.
“It does appear that elderly residents are being targeted, and I’d urge anyone with elderly neighbours or relatives to pass this information onto them as well, and to keep an eye out for them.
“We’d also advise making sure your front and back doors and windows are locked at all times, even when you’re at home.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting incident number 768 of December 1.
