Suspicious Bogus Caller: Woolage Green

Dear Resident, 

Please be aware of a recent suspicious bogus caller event, that occurred in the hamlet of Woolage Green, which Kent Police are now investigating as a possible scouting or attempted distraction burglary.

In the reported instance, an individual attended a local address and is suspected to have used a false story, designed to distract the occupant, whilst possibly taking note of valuables within the property and on the occupant's land. No property was reported stolen; however, these tactics are often employed by thieves to identify vulnerable residents, properties, or items worth stealing later down the line.

Please remain vigilant and consider the following crime prevention advice:

- Do not allow unexpected callers into your home. Always ask for identification and verify it independently if unsure.

- Keep doors and windows locked, even when you are at home.

- Use a door chain or spy hole viewer when answering the door.

- Be cautious of anyone requesting urgent access, offering services, or claiming to be from a utility company.

- If in doubt, do not open the door and call the police via 999 if you feel threatened, or 101 for non-emergency concerns.

-Consider installing CCTV.

-Join local Neighbourhood Watch Schemes and/or WhatsApp Groups to share information and alerts such as this one with one another.

I have disseminated the details of this incident force-wide and so the area is likely to see an increase of police patrols throughout the night. 

Furthermore, I have posted a paper copy of this notice through some local resident's doors. I have also left a stack of 'No Bogus Callers' type door/window stickers within the defibrillator/library hut for those who wish to take one.  

If you observe any suspicious behaviour or have concerns, please report this to Kent Police so that we can take appropriate action and build a bigger picture.