HOUSEHOLDRERS have been put on the alert and police are carrying out reassurance patrols after bogus water officials tricked their way into the homes of elderly people.
Three incidents were reported to police on Thursday, one in Carlton Miniott near Thirsk and two in Welburn near Malton.
In the first incident two men dressed in suits called at the home of an 82-year-old woman in Carlton Miniott, claiming to be fixing a neighbour’s burst pipe.
They distracted her left the property with small household items after searching through drawers and cupboards.
A dark blue car was seen parked outside the house which then left shortly after the suspects left the house.
In the second and third incidents three men wearing suits called at the home of an 84-year-old woman in Chestnut Avenue, Welburn near Malton and then her neighbour . They also claimed to be water officials fixing a burst pipe.
The men went upstairs and turned taps on but then left both the scenes empty-handed.
Detective Sergeant Darrin Knight said: "Distraction burglaries are bad enough but to target elderly and vulnerable people is despicable. While the thieves got away with very little, the victims were left very disturbed and worried following the incidents.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 9845 6060 247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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