Police appeal after series of distraction burglaries

Police are appealing for witnesses after several distraction burglaries in Polegate, Hailsham and Eastbourne on Tuesday (April 12).
E-fit of distraction burglary suspects. SUS-160418-132939001E-fit of distraction burglary suspects. SUS-160418-132939001
E-fit of distraction burglary suspects. SUS-160418-132939001

Officers are seeking information on incidents in Brook Street and Dittons Road in Polegate, Hawthylands Road in Hailsham and Slindon Crescent in Eastbourne, in which bogus callers conned or tried to force their way into residents’ homes.

These may be linked to three further distraction type burglaries which occurred earlier the same day in Sidley, Bexhill-on-Sea, and another in Bexhill Road, St Leonards-on-Sea.

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It is believed the same two men were involved in all the offences. Both were white, of slim to medium build, clean shaven and thought to be in their late 20s. Both wore blue clothing and one was said to be wearing a baseball cap.

A royal blue saloon car with ladders attached to the roof was seen at one of the locations.

Detective Constable Richie Davison, of the Priority Crime Team, said: “House-to-house enquiries have been carried out and extra patrols deployed to reassure residents.

“Our advice to anyone finding a stranger at their door is not to let them in, no matter what they say, or unless absolutely sure they are genuine.

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“Reputable callers will be prepared to provide identification and to wait outside for this to be checked with the company or organisation they claim to represent. If at all concerned, call police immediately by dialling 999.

“Meanwhile we would like to hear from anyone who may have recently experienced unannounced visits in the area or who may have seen anything or anyone suspicious.”

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected] phone 101, quoting Operation Inroad.

Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org).

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