23/08/2006

Two distraction robberies in Portadown

Police in Portadown have appealed for information following two distraction robberies in the area yesterday afternoon.

Shortly before 1pm, a woman called to the home of a 90-year-old woman in the Clonallen Avenue area of the town, and asked if she could check her back garden for a ball which had been kicked in by accident.

The pensioner went to her garden, and when she returned, found a male in the house, trying to steal her purse and handbag.

Minutes later, police received reports of a similar incident involving a 56-year-old woman in the nearby Ripley Terrace.

The robbers escaped empty handed, and no one was injured.

Police have warned members of the public, especially the elderly, to be extra vigilant about hoax callers, and to report any suspicious callers to police on 0845 600 8000, or anonymously on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

(EF)

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