Woman attacked by gang who barged into her home in to steal valuables

The attack happened between 7.30pm and 7.50pm on Monday (February 29) when the men called at the house in Chestnut Avenue, Bedford, claiming they needed to check the water pipes.

When the woman refused to let them in, the men forced their way in, threatening the woman and assaulted her.

The men left carrying the cash and jewellery in a suitcase, also stolen from the address.

All three are described as White. One is described as being in his late 20s and around 5’5” with stubble, and wearing a white cap, blue jeans, and a light blue jacket. The other two men had their faces covered.

Investigating officer PC Lucy Craddock said: “This was a vicious and intolerable incident which has understandably left the victim shaken and upset.

“We are following a number of lines of inquiry to find the heartless people responsible and I’m urging members of the public to help us by getting in touch if they witnessed any suspicious activity in the area at the time.

“I’d also remind people to be vigilant and not to answer the door if in any doubt on who is calling, as well as to always report suspicious activity the police on 101 – or 999 in an emergency and if a crime is in progress.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Craddock on 101 quoting JH/8695/2016 or call Crimestoppers, completely anonymously, on 0800 555 111.