Pensioner Slapped in Portsmouth Burglary

Police are appealing for information following an aggravated burglary in Portsmouth.

At some time between 7am and 12.15pm on Thursday, March 11 an 89-year-old woman was at home at an address on Margate Road, Somerstown, when she answered the door to two men who forced their way into her home.

The woman was slapped around the face and had her rings removed from her hand.

The men then cut the phone line, pushed passed the woman and entered other rooms throughout the address.

They made off with three rings, one was a gold ‘mum’ ring, and two were gold wedding rings, one thinner than the other. At this stage it is not known what other items have been taken.

The victim did not receive any visible injuries as a result of this incident.

The men police want to speak to are described as, white, aged 18 to 19 and around 5ft 10ins.

Detective Constable Kate Wakefield, said:“This was a horrendous attack on a vulnerable elderly lady in her own home. This incident occurred in full daylight and was committed by young men who were armed with a knife that they used to cut the phone wire with. She had rings of great sentimental value stolen as they had belonged to her late mother and father. I would urge anyone with any information about this incident or anyone who is offered similar rings for sale, to contact Fratton CID.”

Anyone with any information relevant to this incident should contact DC Wakefield at Fratton CID by calling 101, or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Callers from outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight should call 0845 045 45 45.