Plumber Ruse Used to Burgle 90-Year-Old Woman in Bethnal Green
Three brazen thieves targeted a 90-year-old woman in Bethnal Green on Tuesday, January 19, around 2:45pm. The suspects drove past her as she walked home, then made a U-turn and followed her onto her estate.
Fake Plumber Tricks Victim Into Letting Them Inside
Once inside the buzzer-controlled gates, one of the men posed as a plumber, claiming there was a water leak. To sell the story, he sprayed water on the floor and ceiling.
While he distracted the elderly lady at her front door, a second suspect sneaked inside and ransacked her bedroom. The woman only realised she was being burgled when a stranger emerged from her bedroom.
£35 Jumper Stolen – Suspects Flee in Blue Fiat with False Plates
All three suspects fled together in a dark blue Fiat Bravo fitted with fake number plates. They made off with just a new jumper worth around £35.
Police describe all suspects as white males, with the main culprit, aged about 35 and of large build, wearing a grey jumper and trousers. They are believed to have ties to Essex and Hertfordshire.
Police Plea to Spot the Suspects
Detective Constable Kate Osborne said: “Although our victim was unharmed, she’s been left shaken by these opportunistic criminals who followed her into her home. Please check the e-fit and get in touch if you recognise this man. Any info on the vehicle or the other two men could help.”
If you have information, call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 982/01MAR21.
