Man steals handbag after forcing his way into house in Bedford

Police are warning the public to be vigilant when answering the door after a man entered a property in Stanley Street, forcing his way past the victim before stealing a handbag.

The suspect is described as a white man, approximately 5ft 10in, in his 50s, with a thin face and grey hair which looked unkept. He was seen wearing a hi-vis jacket and a light blue face mask.

Bedfordshire Police Detective Sergeant Melissa Cunningham, investigating, said: “We are appealing for information about this burglary and for anyone who saw someone acting suspiciously or knocking on doors in the area of Stanley Street around the time of the burglary to come forward and help us identify this man.

“Please can I remind the public to be vigilant and cautious when opening the door to strangers, and to check any ID with service providers if they have arrived unexpectedly. Burglars are often opportunistic. Please ensure you lock doors and windows, and use a door chain if you have one when opening the door to strangers.”

If you have any information that could help the police, visit here or call 101, quoting the reference number 40/4729/21.

You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

The incident happened between 8-9pm on Friday (January 29).