islington police hunt gang of thieves who pose as utility company workers

Published: 18th March, 2011
by PETER GRUNER

DETECTIVES are hunting a group of men who heartlessly conned their way into an 88 year old woman’s home and then stole from her.

The victim was in her home in Richmond Crescent, Barnsbury, on Thursday March 10 at about 1pm when the suspects buzzed her intercom saying that there was a leak that they needed to fix. 

The victim refused to open her door at first but they persisted until she let one of the men in.

This man took her into her bathroom and began running the taps and talking to her about the leak. 

Three other men, unbeknown to the victim, also entered the flat and went into her living room, kitchen and bedroom areas. 

One of the men pulled the doorbell transmitter off the wall – police later found it abandoned in the communal hallway. 

The victim realised what was happening and demanded that the suspect who was with her leave immediately. 

She then noticed the other three suspects run from her kitchen and bedroom and make off out of the flat.

The victim checked her money and realised that cash totalling £170 and some jewellery had been stolen.

All four suspects were well dressed and had English accents. They are described as:

• Suspect 1: A clean-shaven white man aged about 30, 6” tall, of slim build. He had dark short hair and was wearing a navy suit with white gloves.
• Suspect 2: A white man, aged around 25. He was wearing a chequered mixed/coloured suit.
• Suspect 3: A white man. He was wearing a smart brown suit.
• Suspect 4: A white man, aged between 30-40 years. He had dark brown hair and spoke with an effeminate voice. He was wearing a distinctive white zip-up jacket with large black writing/lettering on the front.

Investigating officer PC Kelly Knowles said: “We are particularly keen to speak to any residents who may have had these suspects knock on their door or anyone who noticed these men in the area at the time. 

“I would also advise members of the public to be vigilant and cautious when opening the door to strangers. This is a method that burglars often use to enter homes and steal personal property – claiming to be from a utility company or the council. 

“If in doubt, and you are unable to verify their identity, don’t let them in. If they are legitimate they will understand and won’t mind if you need confirmation. Call their company if need be”.

Anyone with information on these suspects should call police on 020 7421 0172 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.