Water board conmen hunted by police in Sheffield after woman loses thousands

Thieves posing as ‘water board’ officials have targeted a number of homes over the last week, with cash stolen from at least two elderly victims.

LATEST: Knife crime rising in South Yorkshire but less than 1 in 7 offenders caught by police

One woman had £3,000 stolen when the conmen called at her home on Manor Oaks Place, Wybourn, on Thursday, June 18.

COURT: Sheffield judge blasts abusive man over 'disgraceful' behaviour after he harassed partner

They claimed there had been an explosion nearby and they needed to turn off her water supply.

After gaining access to her home, the crooks distracted her and stole her savings.

They were both white and one was wearing a blue suit and the other was in casual clothing and possibly in his teens.

Yesterday an elderly man from Manor Park Centre, Manor Park, had £300 stolen from his house after bogus water board officials knocked on his window, claimed there was a water leak and told him he needed to turn off his stop tap.

As the victim went to turn the water off in his kitchen, one of the conmen entered the property and stole around cash from his lounge.

One of the thieves was around 35 years old, wore a suit jacket and carried an ID badge. He was accompanied by a teenager.

Detective Sergeant Lee Corker said: “Both these incidents have been incredibly distressing for the victims, who have put their trust in people claiming to be from some sort of authority or organisation.

“Our investigations are progressing but I’d ask anyone with information to please contact us, these are elderly people who do not deserve to be targeted in this way.

“I’d also ask that you look out for your neighbours and also have conversations with them or any family members that may be vulnerable. You should not let anyone in who you’re not expecting, speak to them through a window, rather than opening the door.

“Our officers will be stepping up patrols in the area and will be available to provide crime prevention advice should you need it, please speak to them, they’re there for you.”