Burglars disguised as electricians target elderly

SINGAPORE : The number of cases of burglars posing as electricians to gain access into flats has been on the rise since 2006, but the trend reversed last year with a decline of 14 cases.

Many of the victims were the elderly.

77—year—old Madam Lee Phong Tee and her 82—year—old husband, who are victims of burglary, are now wary of strangers knocking on their doors.

"He (burglar) turned off my circuit breaker outside, before lying that my circuit breaker has tripped. He had intended to come and steal from me. I opened the door because he said the government sent him to repair the short circuit," said Madam Lee.

The thief made off with S$900 worth of jewellery and S$600 cash which was meant for their daily expenses.

The police have stepped patrols in various estates. — CNA /ls


Nowadays it is very common to hear that elderly are the victims of fraud cases.It is indeed very cruel to prey on elderly,just because they are old and gullible.The burglar is able-bodied and should go out to find a job for a living instead of committing a crime in order to earn money.The burglar should approach the government or organisations such as CDAC for help if he really requires financial assistance. Spending the money gained by illegal means would not be better than spending our own hard earn money as we would feel guilty about it and be afraid that we would be caught on day.I think that the burglar should spend a thought for the elderly as these jewelleries and cash was meant for their daily expenses and they do not have the physical ability to work and earn a living any more.

I hoped that elderly would be more alert in future and never open their doors to strangers to avoid such incident again.They should also consult their children before making any decision.Neighbours should also look out for one another and if possible,nabbed the burglar before he escapes.