CCTV appeal for witnesses to distraction burglary as officers remind residents to stay vigilant

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a distraction burglary in Stoke-on-Trent on Thursday (3 June), while reminding residents to remain vigilant to prevent themselves falling victim to similar crimes.

At about 7.40pm, two women knocked on the door of a property on Stanley Street, Tunstall, requesting a drink and to use their toilet.

The victim allowed them to enter the property, and while they were distracted, a Samsung Galaxy S9 mobile phone and two Barclays Bank cards were stolen.

The first of the two women – who are both shown in CCTV images released by Staffordshire Police – is described as in her early 50s, with long, black hair. She was wearing a brown long-sleeved jumper or dress with a ruffled neck, black tights or leggings and black shoes.

The second woman was aged in mid-to-late 40s with long, ginger hair. She was wearing a blue denim jacket, black skirt and tights, and burgundy shoes.

PC Ben Yates, of Staffordshire Police’s Northern Response Hub, said: “We are urging residents to remain vigilant and never to allow people they don’t know into their home.

“If you are ever suspicious or have any doubts please do not let people into your property. Close the door and ring somebody you trust to come and help you. If you have a door chain, ensure it is on before opening the door.

“To report any suspicious incidents such as this please message the force on social media or call 101 to pass on the details. In an emergency, always dial 999.”

Anyone with any information or who was in the area at the time and might have seen or heard anything suspicious should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 835 of 3 June, call 101 or alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.