Distraction Burglary Warning

Police are investigating a distraction burglary at the home of an elderly man in Grangetown in Cardiff.

It happened just after 7am on Thursday, July 1.

A man, claiming to be a police officer said he was looking for counterfeit money and invited himself in.

He stole a quantity of cash and left.

A 44-year-old local man's been arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Police say this is an isolated incident but are urging anyone with elderly relatives or those who care for older people to make them aware of this incident.

There are a number of things you can do to prevent distraction burglary. Always remember "if in doubt, keep them out":

• use your door viewer to see who’s there

• if you open the door put the chain on first

• always ask for ID and check it with the company before letting somebody into your home

• use the phone number advertised in the phone book or online, as the number on their identity card could be fake. For a utility company, call the customer service department. Close the door while you do this

• remember that genuine callers won’t mind checks. If you feel at all unsure, schedule a time for the caller to come back when a friend or relative is there

• for pre-planned appointments with utility companies, a password scheme can be set up

• If you feel threatened or in danger by the presence of the caller, call 999.

• distraction burglary
• cardiff
• grangetown
• counterfeit money