Beware of fresh wave of distraction burglars posing as Anglian Water staff, police warn

Police have warned homeowners in Ely against allowing people claiming to be from the water board into their homes without carrying out proper checks first.

The warning comes after Anglian Water sent out thousands of letters to homes and businesses detailing its plans to carry out a ‘flush’ of the water mains in the city.

While the letter is most certainly legitimate, police are concerned that fraudsters may seize the opportunity to pose as Anglian Water employees and use the letter to gain entry to homes.

Sue Loaker, crime reduction officer at Ely police station, said: “Residents of Ely have been sent a letter from Anglian Water advising that essential work to the water supply will take place between March 31 and April 25.

“Anglian Water has confirmed that it is extremely unlikely that there will be any need for their work force to have access to your home to test your water supply or water pressure.

“The police always advise that residents use a door chain to all callers and check their identification. If in any doubt they are genuine, please contact Anglian Water to confirm they are legitimate and not a bogus caller before you allow them entry into your home.”

Cases of distraction burglary have been on the increase in recent years, with several incidents reported in Littleport and Wilburton last year.

The fraudsters often work in pairs and target elderly or vulnerable homeowners.

To contact Anglian Water, call 08457 145 145 and quote job number 50034698.