Bogus officials target pensioners

DOORSTEP conmen posed as water and gas company officials to trick their way into the homes of three ‘defenceless’ elderly people in north Manchester.

Officers have released images of two men they want to speak about the incidents.

Three incidents in north Manchester within the space of seven hours on June 22 are being linked by police.

Two men knocked at the door of a woman aged in her 70s at 11.30am on Goodman Street, Harpurhey. Police said she became suspicious and one of the men barged past her into the house. He tried to look around but was ushered out by the woman.

Then at around 6.35pm, on Wilton Road in Crumpsall, two men targeted the home of a man aged in his 90s.

Police said a small amount of cash was taken. A third burglary on Victoria Avenue, Blackley, around 15 minutes later is also being investigated. A purse was stolen CCTV images released by police of two men they want to talk to from the home of a woman aged in her 80s.

Police said ‘defenceless’ pensioners were left frightened and upset.

Pc Dave Fenton, of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said: “Whoever is committing these heartless crimes is clearly targeting the elder people in our society to take advantage of their good nature with no regard for the effect they have caused.

“In a foolish attempt to get a quick win by taking money or prized possessions from innocent, defenceless people, the offenders have frightened and upset them, leaving them scared in their own homes. Please study the images we’ve released and get in touch with us if you have any information that could help us or if you recognise the men.”

Anyone with information can call police on 0161 856 3925 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.