Pair con their way into home of man, 70.

DETECTIVES in Ipswich are investigating how distraction burglars conned their way into the home of a 70-year-old man.

A man claiming he was thinking about renting a property in the area called at the man's home between 3pm and 4pm yesterday afternoon in Dandalan Close, Ipswich.

Approximately 10 minutes later the man had another visit from a man looking for a friend, a conversation took place and the elderly man mentioned he was having problems with his taps. The visitor stated he was a plumber and he would be able to help him.

The man entered the property and checked the taps while asking for a cup of tea. Soon afterwards the man left and the occupant found that his wallet containing a quantity of cash had been stolen.

Police believe the two men worked together to gain access to the gentleman's home. The first offender is described as a white male, 50-60 years old, around 5ft 7ins tall of stocky build wearing glasses, he wrote a blue coat and trousers. The second offender was white, he had ginger hair, around 40 years old, approximately 5ft 7ins tall, he was of medium build and wore a jacket and trousers.

DS Paul Barber said: "We cannot stress enough the importance to the elderly that they do not allow strangers into their homes. Bogus callers will use different tactics to get into their homes and then distract them whilst looking for valuables.

"If ever in doubt about a person coming to your home do not allow them in – keep them out.

"We have crime reduction officers here who can offer advice and guidance and will visit people over 60 in their homes to offer a free survey and discuss security arrangements."

Anyone who has information relating to this incident should call DC Danny Mayhew at Ipswich CID on 01473 383189 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. The crime reduction officers can be contacted on 01473 383141.