Pair targeting Co. Antrim pensioners
Police are warning the public to be on the look-out for a man and woman after a series of incidents this week.
Police in County Antrim are warning about a couple who are targeting the elderly in distraction burglaries.
On Tuesday, a man and woman called to the door of an elderly woman living in sheltered accommodation. While the woman distracted the elderly resident, the man entered the house and stole her handbag.
There were a number of similar incidents across the Carrickfergus and Ballymena areas that day and the next.
Police say a man and woman matching the same description gained entry to sheltered accomodation and care homes. When they were challenged they said in poor English they were there to visit a resident and then left.
The man and woman are described as being around 30 years old and spoke poor English - possibly with an eastern European accent. They are believed to be travelling in a small blue car.
Inspector Michael Simpson said: "I believe all the incidents to be linked and that this couple are opportunistic thieves specifically targeting elderly, vulnerable people.
“I am appealing for anyone with any information which could assist us with our enquiries into these incidents to contact detectives at Ballymena on 101 quoting reference number 689 01/05/18. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."