'Suspicious' women try to enter houses

File photo / NZH

Young women are trying to gain access to the homes of elderly people in north Christchurch, and police are warning residents to be cautious.

Sergeat Todd Webley, of Papanui, said there had been several incidents where a woman, aged between 18 and 35 years, had approached elderly residents , asking to use their phone or toilet.

On some occasions they had been allowed access to the house.

"Police are concerned that this person or persons are using this as an opportunity to steal items from the address then, or later," Mr Webley said.

"If you don't know the person, don't let them in your house."

He suggested that the person be directed to the nearest public toilet, or that the phone is handed out the door to them.

"If anyone has any suspicions about someone wanting access to their house they are asked to call the police," Mr Webley said.

- NZPA