An elderly couple in Toddington were burgled by a man and woman who claimed to be looking for their dog.
Bedfordshire Police are reminding householders to take extra precautions when answering their doors.
The incident happened on October 29 in the High Street between midday and 2pm when the man and woman called at the house looking for their dog.
The man was allowed to walk through the home and into the back garden to look for his dog while the woman was left in the hallway.
However, one of the occupants began to challenge the visitors and they both left the scene.
Shortly after the incident the victims realised cash had been taken from their home and reported the incident to the police.
The offenders are described as a white man and a white woman, both 5 ft 6.
Detective Helen Toms is keen to trace anyone else who may have received visitors matching the descriptions given recently and would like to take this opportunity to remind residents to take extra precautions when answering their door to unexpected visitors.
DC Toms said: “Often people who commit this type of burglary visit other homes in the area and target elderly people within our communities. I would urge anyone who has received a similar visit to their home or anyone who saw two suspicious people in Toddington recently to come forward and assist with this investigation.
“I would also urge all residents to follow these crime reduction tips to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
Beds Police crime prevention tips:
If you’re not sure who is at your door, don’t open it. Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they are purporting to be from i.e. Police, Council or Gas, Electricity, Water companies. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider. Do not use any telephone numbers provided by the caller, as they may be bogus.
• Many utility service providers like gas, electricity and water, provide password schemes for customers, sign up to these. When unannounced callers claiming to be from these utility providers call at your door they should know the password if they are genuine.
‘Water Boards’ no longer exist, it is an obsolete phrase used only by bogus callers.
• Don’t keep large quantities of cash at home; put it in the bank where it is safe.
• Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times.
• Ensure that if you do let somebody in to your home, that you close the door behind them – distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst others sneak in through the insecure door.
If somebody asks for your help (i.e. needs to make a telephone call, lost a ball/dog in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper) refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door or call a friend or neighbour to come and help.
If you suspect a bogus caller is at your door call the police immediately.