Please attribute to Acting Sergeant Deborah Leahy, Waitemata Police.
Police are advising the public to be wary following reports of a man going door-to-door offering to service smoke alarms in residential houses.
Police understand a man has been targeting elderly residents in Glen Eden, Te Atatu, Avondale and Blockhouse Bay over the past week.
He has offered to service smoke alarms and then upon entering the victims houses has stolen handbags, wallets and other valuable items.
In all reported cases the description of the man is similar, he is described as being in his 20’s-30’s, dark skinned, tall and slim to medium build.
In several cases he was reported to be wearing blue jeans or grey track pants and a red jacket and is often holding a clipboard.
This man has been targeting some of the most vulnerable members of our community and he needs to be stopped and held to account for his actions.
Police remind everyone if a stranger comes to your door offering a service, you should always ask to see their photo identification. Don’t open the door to strangers and don’t be afraid to say no. Always keep your door locked, even if you are just in your garden.
If you have any information that can lead Police to this offender, or have been a victim of this scam please contact us immediately.
You can call the Waitemata Police on (09) 836 0600 or alternatively you can also provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Monique Caddy/NZ Police