Big-cheeked thief targets Tunbridge Wells OAPs by pretending to check for water contamination

A big-cheeked thief is believed to be carrying out distraction burglaries in Tunbridge Wells.

Vulnerable residents, especially the elderly, have been warned to be on their guard after two incidents in the town.

A man wearing dark clothing followed a 90-year-old man into his home in Summervale Road on Tuesday 15 January. 

The suspect claimed he was there to test the elderly man's water as it had become "contaminated".

The caller, wearing dark clothing, moved around the house turning on taps but did not actually attempt to check the man's water before leaving a few minutes later, without taking anything. 

The incident happened between 4.30pm and 5pm.

 

The same afternoon, also between 4.30pm and 5pm, a man described as stocky and aged between 40 and 45 entered a house in nearby Eastlands Road. 

Again the victim, an 86-year-old woman, was told there were water contamination problems.

While inside the house the man stole items, including a quantity of cash, which he left with. 

He was around 5ft 9ins tall, white and with short fair hair. He had big cheeks and was wearing a navy blue duffle-style coat.

 

It is not clear which of the two incidents happened first but Kent Police has linked them due to their similarities.

 

Investigating officer DC Stella Humphrey said: "In light of these incidents, our PCSOs will be out in the local area advising people to be wary of cold-callers. 

"All genuine utility workers will carry ID and residents should always ask to see this before anyone is allowed into their home.

 

"Both victims feel very upset and embarrassed at what has happened to them and I ask anyone else who has been visited by similar calls in this way to alert police."

 

Anyone with any information about the incidents is asked to call Kent Police on 101, quoting crime references 999/13 or 1036/13. 

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.