A burglary investigation has been launched in Westcliff after masked intruders broke into the home of an 80-year-old man in the early hours of the morning, leaving him “shaken and scared”.
Essex Police have confirmed they are investigating after two men forced their way into the property on Westminster Drive, Westcliff, at around 4.20am on Wednesday 2 April. The pensioner was at home at the time of the break-in.
While police have confirmed that nothing is believed to have been stolen, the emotional impact on the victim has been significant. The man has understandably been left shaken up by the ordeal.
Footage from a doorbell camera shows the men wearing balaclavas at the front door. The video first captures the suspects at 4.18am, just minutes before they are seen forcing entry into the home.
A relative of the victim said: “These men broke into an 80-year-old man’s house. He’s okay now, but he’s still scared and shaken up.”
Another local, Lisa Barden, added: “That poor man will now live in fear. There’s no respect in this country for innocent people just trying to survive.”
Essex Police are appealing for witnesses, CCTV, dash cam footage or any information that might help them identify the suspects and understand more about the incident.
A spokesperson for Essex Police said:
“We were called about a burglary in Westminster Drive, Westcliff, on 2 April. It was reported to have happened at around 4.20am when two people gained entry to an address there. It is not believed anything was taken.”
Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area around the time of the incident is urged to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting incident 250 of 2 April. Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers.