Cardiff,South Wales - Police appeal for information after two similar distraction burglaries in Cardiff in one day

Police said burglars often live in or near the very communities in which they operate

• 17 JUN 2016
• BY KATIE SANDS

In both incidents, pensioners were visited by individuals who said their daughter had damaged a rear window while playing with a catapult

Police are investigating two distraction burglaries which happened in Cardiff on Friday.

Officers say there are similarities between the two incidents

The first incident happened at around 10.45am on Manor Way, when police say a man called to a house and said his daughter had damaged a rear window while playing with a catapult.

Two incidents on the same day

Police said the victim, who is in his 70s, walked to the back of the property to inspect the damage but asked the caller to leave. He then found that a large quantity of jewellery had been taken from his home.

The second incident happened shortly after midday when two men called at a house inPentyrch and told the 79-year-old at the house the same story about a catapult.

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Police said the man was then assaulted and his Rolex watch was taken from his wrist, before he discovered items had been stolen from his house including a gold chain and a sapphire jewel.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Colston, of Cardiff ’s Criminal Investigation Department, said both incidents were very distressing and felt it important to let residents know so they can take necessary steps to protect their homes, neighbours, friends and relatives.

'It is important we all work together to keep Cardiff safe'

The South Wales Police detective sergeant said: "The public are our eyes and ears. Burglars often live in, or near, the very communities in which they operate, so we would ask that any suspicious behaviour or individuals are brought to our attention immediately.

“It is important we all work together to keep Cardiff safe.

“As always we would remind householders to be cautious when approached by door to door traders who call without an appointment.

“Always ask for identification and check its authenticity - if in doubt keep them out."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting 1600225140 for the Pentyrch incident or 1600225351 for the Manor Way incident.

see-http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/local-news/police-appeal-information-after-two-11490833