Police in Neath Port Talbot are warning householders to be on their guard against distraction burglaries, and are also requesting information about two suspects. They are investigating two crimes which occurred last month, and which are being linked to a number of suspicious incidents across the South Wales force yesterday.

An incident was reported at George Street in Neath where two men attended the home of a 93-year-old man claiming they needed to enter the house as there was a burst water main in a nearby street.

One of the men distracted the owner while the other made a search of the property.

The suspect is described as male, aged mid 40s, tall, of medium build with short cropped hair, wearing a navy suit, a shirt and tie, generally of very smart appearance.

A further incident was reported at Corporation Road in Port Talbot by an 89-year-old female, who was approached by two men at her home stating there had been an explosion.

One of the men distracted the woman while the other made a search of the property.

She described the suspect as aged late 20s to early 30s, white, 5ft 7ins in height, average build, with dark short hair and a black moustache. He wore smart clothing, a white shirt and black gloves.

These incidents are being linked to four others which were reported across the South Wales force area – in Cardiff, Penbryn in Merthyr Tydfil, Illtyd Street, Neath and at St Lawrence Court in Penlan, Swansea.

These were similar in nature to the distraction burglaries reported in Neath Port Talbot. On these occasions the occupiers refused entry and the men made off.All the suspects have been described as being well-dressed or smart.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Davies, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen these individuals or anyone who may have been approached in similar circumstances to come forward to the police.

“An investigation is underway in order to identify those responsible. We would use this as an opportunity to remind residents not to allow any cold callers into your home.

“It is very fortunate that in four out of the six reported incidents the occupiers challenged the men resulting in them being refused entry to the properties and making off.

“I hope this is a reflection of the huge amount of work which has been done across South Wales to raise awareness of the issue of doorstep crime, particularly among our elderly and vulnerable communities.”

Anyone with information should contact South Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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