West Midlands Police have launched an urgent appeal for information following a distraction burglary at a property on Hagley Road West, Birmingham, during which a phone was stolen. Officers have released an image of a man they believe can assist with their investigation, and the public is being urged to come forward with any details.
Incident Details
The alleged theft occurred on the morning of Friday, July 10, at approximately 11.15am. According to police, the offender entered the property under false pretences, a tactic commonly known as a distraction burglary, and managed to steal a mobile phone before leaving the scene.
Distraction burglaries typically involve a criminal knocking on a door or gaining entry by posing as an official, offering a service, or creating a fake emergency. These offences are particularly distressing for victims, as they often target vulnerable individuals in their own homes.
Police Appeal and Suspect Description
In a statement issued on Saturday, August 1, Birmingham Police shared the appeal with the public. The force described the man they want to speak to as being in his late 40s and approximately 5ft 6ins tall. The appeal includes a photograph of the man, which was circulated on social media and through local news outlets.
Can you help us identify this man? We’re appealing for your help following a distraction burglary where a phone was stolen from inside a property on Hagley Road West, Birmingham, at 11.15am on 10 July. We would like to speak to the man pictured as we believe he could help us with our investigation.
Police are asking anyone who recognises the man or has any information about the incident to contact them. The crime number for the case is 20/318569/26.
How to Assist the Investigation
West Midlands Police have provided several ways for the public to report information. Individuals can call 101, quoting the crime number mentioned above, or use the Live Chat option on the West Midlands Police website. Alternatively, those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers directly on 0800 555 111.
Officers have stressed that even the smallest piece of information could be vital in identifying the suspect and progressing the investigation. They continue to urge residents in the Hagley Road West area to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.
Context and Advice for Residents
Hagley Road West is a busy main road in Birmingham, lined with a mix of residential properties, shops, and businesses. The incident has raised concerns among local residents, who are being reminded to take precautions against distraction burglaries. Police recommend always asking for identification from unexpected visitors, using door chains, and verifying the credentials of anyone claiming to be from an official organisation.
Distraction burglaries often involve two or more offenders, and while the suspect in this case was acting alone according to reports, the psychological impact on victims can be long-lasting. The force has not disclosed whether the victim was injured, but they have confirmed that the phone was stolen during the incident.
West Midlands Police has prioritised tackling burglary and theft offences, with dedicated neighbourhood teams working to identify patterns and issue prevention advice. The appeal, shared on Saturday, August 1, is part of these wider efforts to engage the public and solve the case quickly.
Contact Information and Next Steps
Anyone with information is asked to quote crime number 20/318569/26 when contacting police. The Live Chat service is available on the West Midlands Police website, offering a convenient way to share details online. For those who prefer to speak anonymously, Crimestoppers operates 24/7 and guarantees complete anonymity.
Police have not yet made any arrests, and it remains an active investigation. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
