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Protect our pensioners! Rallying cry from police to safeguard elderly against doorstep conmen

Elderly residents in the West Midlands are collectively being conned out of a fortune by cruel conmen who trick their way inside homes – now West Midlands Police is urging everyone to play their part in protecting the region’s pensioners. Latest crime figures recorded by West Midlands Police show that 324 residents – mainly older, vulnerable people – have been duped in the last 12 months by distraction burglars posing as officials, workmen and even police officers. It’s estimated they’ve lost in excess of £100,000 to the heartless thieves – but detectives believe that could be just the tip of the iceberg with many more offences going unreported. Last month West Midlands Police detectives investigating thefts and cons against elderly residents in Birmingham made two significant arrests; both men are now remanded in prison ahead of appearances at crown court. But the force is urging everyone to be alert to the threat and help spread the word to be wary of dodgy doorstep callers. West Midlands Police Detective Chief Inspector Simon Wallis, said: “Unfortunately there are people out there who think nothing of targeting the most vulnerable in society and stealing from them. “These are despicable offences…among the most callous we come across. Thieves turn up at people’s homes under the pretences of helping them but, in reality, they are looking for opportunities to steal cash and valuables. “We’ve seen offenders posing as police officers; council officials; gas, electricity or water company officials; surveyors; rat catchers and workmen of various types. “I’d encourage anyone who has an elderly relative, neighbour or friend to pop round, check up on them, and ensure they are wary of these criminal tactics. Everyone can play their part – let’s spread the message and hopefully stop more people becoming victims.” One of the worst cases detectives are investigating saw a 90-year-old man from Hall Green lose £16,000 on 10 October to a fraudster posing as a police officer. The man is understood to have claimed he was going door-to-door offering crime prevention advice following a spate of break-ins and to ensure any money kept in the house was secure. But when the victim’s back was turned he fled with two carrier bags full of cash.  Last month West Midlands Police arrested a Stechford man on suspicion of posing as a PC to gain entry to pensioners’ homes. Jason Fellowes (38) was charged with four burglaries and remanded into prison ahead of his next court date on 11 December.  And Gurtake Singh, from Hall Green, was arrested following a series of frauds by a conman who’d duped Birmingham residents out of cash with fake stories of ill relatives. The 37-year-old is accused of taking money – ranging from £20 to £100 – from people by pleading for ‘taxi money’ to visit family in hospital. He’s been charged with 10 counts of fraud plus one burglary and remanded in prison until 28 January 2016.   Det Chief Insp Wallis added: “We’ve recorded 324 ‘distraction burglary’ offences in the last 12 months but we suspect the actual figure could be much higher.  “Many victims may not realise they’ve suffered a theft – perhaps believing they’ve misplaced money or possessions) or not reporting out of a perceived embarrassment they’ve been duped.  “There is nothing to be ashamed of, though, as these conmen can be very convincing. It’s vital people to report offences or suspicious behaviour to us so that we can piece together a picture of offending patterns, potentially link offences and gather evidence. “Ultimately, our message is never to let anyone into your home who turns up unannounced. If anyone says they’re on official business ask to see identification, check it carefully and phone the organisation they claim to be from. Get a number from the phone book or online – don’t use any number they provide you on a card. “If in doubt keep them out and call the police on 999.”

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