A 90-YEAR-OLD woman was robbed of £30,000 during a distraction burglary in Rowley Regis.

The victim was tricked into a letting a man into her home after he claimed to be from the council and needed to check the water, police said.

Several other people entered the address and went upstairs, during the incident which happened at around on 6pm on Thursday November 25. 

After they left, the 90-year-old discovered that around £30,000 had been stolen.

Police are investigating and have urged people to look out for elderly neighbours and relatives.

Detective Inspector Phil Griffiths from Force CID, said: “We are determined to find who is behind this burglary that has understandably left this poor lady shaken. 
 

“Something I want to highlight is that a large amount of the money stolen is made up of old banknotes that would have to be changed for the new notes at banks. We are working with banks across the region to make sure this message is cascaded out to all branches.
 
“If anyone is asked to change old notes for new ones, I would urge them to contact police immediately. 
 
“We’ve carried out forensic examinations, taken statements and are examining CCTV. 
 
“Patrols have been stepped up in the area and we are continuing to encourage our communities to step up and look out for our elderly, vulnerable neighbours and friends.
 
“Please take time to talk to older neighbours and relatives about their security and things they need to do to stay safe. Pop round to check they’re OK, keep an eye out for any suspicious activity near their homes, and call us if anything seems amiss.”

Anyone with information to help the investigation should contact West Midlands Police and quote crime reference number 20/1880053/21.