Residents reminded to be vigilant by Police

Police are reminding residents to always check identification of visitors after a suspicious incident in Basingstoke on Tuesday, June 2.

At around 1.10pm an 84-year-old woman answered a knock at the door of her home in Freemantle Close.

A woman then entered her address claiming to be from the gas company and there to read her meter and look for leaks.

The woman walked around the house and then left. Nothing was stolen.

The occupant later contacted the gas company as she was concerned about the visit. She was informed that the company do not operate in that area and there were no scheduled visits on that day.

The woman is described as: 

• White
• 6ft tall
• Slim
• Short, dark hair
• Scruffy
• Wearing a dark green baseball cap with ‘National Grid’ written on it

PC Tony Ilic, of Basingstoke police station, said: “This was a suspicious incident that happened in the middle of the day.

“We would ask anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anyone matching the description to contact police as soon as possible.

“Distraction burglars often use techniques like this to gain access to homes and they often target vulnerable members of our communities.

“We would remind residents to always check identification of their visitors and if they have any concerns contact police immediately.”

Hampshire Constabulary offers the following Safer Homes advice:

• Stop – are you expecting anyone to call on you?  Do you know the person at the door?  Don’t be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you. 
• Check – A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it.  Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from, don’t accept a number from the caller. 
• Chain – fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.

Can you help?

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Tony Ilic at Basingstoke police station on 0845 045 45 45 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000.