Bogus Police Officers Target Elderly in Beauvais Home Invasion

In Beauvais, an elderly woman's home was targeted by thieves disguised as police officers after a fake plumber gained entry. The modus operandi involved a plumber claiming to investigate water leaks, followed by the arrival of fake policemen warning of fraudulent plumbers. The accomplices stole cash, possibly after tracking the victim from a recent withdrawal. Local police advise residents to be cautious, verifying the identity of individuals before allowing them entry, and contacting authorities in case of doubt.

Beware of Impostor Police Officers in Beauvais: Elderly Woman Targeted in Home Invasion

An elderly woman in Beauvais has become the latest victim of a sophisticated home invasion scheme involving individuals posing as police officers. The incident unfolded when a bogus plumber arrived at the victim's home, claiming to have been alerted by neighbors about water leaks in the area.

The victim granted him entry, but unbeknownst to her, a trio of accomplices, impersonating police officers, were lurking nearby. They approached the home, warning the victim of a wave of fake plumbers operating in the neighborhood.

Exploiting the trust she placed in their deceptive uniforms, the impostors gained access to the victim's home, where they stole an undisclosed amount of cash. Authorities believe the victim may have been followed from the moment she withdrew the funds at a local bank.

The National Police of Oise has issued an urgent warning to residents, urging them to remain vigilant and adopt strict safety measures when dealing with individuals claiming to be authority figures.

Key Safety Precautions:

• Never rely solely on uniforms as proof of authenticity. Request to see official identification cards.
• Do not allow anyone into your home without first verifying their identity.
• Use a door chain and peephole to communicate with visitors from behind a closed door.
• If suspicious, contact the relevant institution or authority directly.

Identifying Genuine Police Officers:

• All national police officers carry valid police identification cards with their photograph, rank, and security chip.
• They will be wearing uniforms adorned with their Regional Identification Number (RIO).
• They will be armed and equipped with a bulletproof vest, and at least one officer will have a radio.
• Plainclothes officers will display an orange "Police" armband.

Reporting Suspicious Activity:

If you encounter an individual who claims to be a police officer but fails to meet any of the above criteria, immediately dial 17. The operator will determine the legitimacy of the officer and provide further assistance.

Residents are also encouraged to follow the National Police of Oise on social media platforms, including Facebook and X, for regular updates and crime prevention tips.

Caution: Phony Contractors Targeting Homeowners for Thermal Renovations

Authorities have also received reports of impostors posing as representatives of France Rénov, an organization that provides financial assistance for home energy renovations. These individuals may attempt to gain access to homes under the guise of conducting surveys or repairs. Residents are advised to contact France Rénov directly to verify the authenticity of any representatives claiming affiliation with the organization.

The National Police of Oise remains committed to protecting the community from fraudulent activities. By adhering to these safety precautions, residents can minimize the risk of falling victim to these sophisticated schemes.