Warning following Dover distraction burglary

Witnesses are sought and residents warned to be vigilant following a suspected distraction burglary in Dover.

It was reported to Kent Police that a pensioner was visited by a man, known to her previously as a tradesman, at her home on St Radigund’s Road on Tuesday 5 November 2024.

After entering the property at around 6.30pm, the man went to the kitchen apparently to inspect the taps. The man was challenged and left the property.

Investigation

The resident, who suspects a second person entered her property while she was distracted, later noticed that a handbag was missing and that personal items had been disturbed.

Officers attended and enquiries were carried out at the scene. The man was described as white, around 5ft 3in and of slim build, with dark brown hair and clean shaven, wearing a black jacket with a white trim.

Can you help?

An investigation is ongoing and anyone with relevant information, including CCTV or doorbell footage, is urged to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/188069/24.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or you can complete their online form.

Advice for when approached by those offering work:

• Anybody seeking to have work done should speak to family and friends to obtain details of recommended and trusted traders before getting a number of quotes to make a comparison.
• Doorstep fraudsters generally seek to carry out services that are either completely unnecessary or substandard. If cash is paid in advance they will often leave without starting any work.
• Services offered will include cleaning driveways, gardening or roof and guttering repairs.
• Don't allow anyone to pressure you into agreeing to have work carried out. If you ask them to leave and they don't, contact the police on 999.
• Don't ever go to a bank or cash point with a trader; legitimate traders would never do this.
• Consider using reputable traders who are members of the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme.
• Ask for quotes in writing and check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from.

You will find crime prevention advice on burglary and distraction burglary on our dedicated webpages.