Fake Water Company Worker Steals Jewelry from Senior Woman's Home in Gladbeck, Germany

In Gladbeck, Germany, a man impersonating a water utility worker gained entry to a senior woman's home by claiming to check water pressure. While the woman was in the bathroom turning water on and off, jewelry disappeared from her bedroom. Police suspect a second accomplice and warn residents about this common scam targeting elderly people.

Incident Overview

On October 9, 2026, at approximately 9:15 AM, a senior woman in Gladbeck, Germany, fell victim to a home invasion and theft. A man posing as a water utility company employee gained access to her residence at Horster Straße in Gladbeck-Mitte.

How the Scam Works

The perpetrator claimed he needed to check the water pressure in the apartment. Once inside, he directed the elderly woman to the bathroom and had her turn the shower water on and off repeatedly. Shortly after this distraction, he left the apartment. Upon checking her bedroom, the woman discovered that jewelry had been stolen.

Police investigation revealed that the woman maintained visual contact with the man throughout his stay. This suggests that a second accomplice may have entered the apartment undetected and searched the bedroom while the woman was occupied in the bathroom.

Suspect Description

Police have released the following description of the suspect:

Age: Approximately 50-55 years old
Height: 180-185 cm (5'11" to 6'1")
Hair: Black
Clothing: Blue work overall
Language: Fluent, accent-free German speaker

Warning Signs and Prevention Tips

This scam targeting elderly people is not new, yet it continues to succeed. Residents can protect themselves with these measures:

Prevention Strategies

Verify Identity: Always ask for and examine official identification documents. Call the organization they claim to represent directly to confirm their visit.
Confirm Appointments: Contact your local water utility, gas company, or other service providers directly to verify whether a worker visit has been scheduled.
Do Not Admit Strangers: Never let unannounced visitors into your home, especially elderly residents living alone should consult family members or trusted neighbors.
Be Alert to Multiple Perpetrators: If a worker directs you away from the main area or into another room, remain vigilant for signs of accomplices.
Coordinate with Neighbors: Agree to watch for suspicious visitors and report any unusual activity.
Keep Valuables Secure: Do not leave jewelry, cash, or important documents in easily accessible areas like bedrooms.

Reporting and Resources

If you have witnessed suspicious activity or have information about this incident, please contact:

Recklinghausen Police

Emergency Hotline: 0800 2361 111 (toll-free)
Website: Official Recklinghausen Police page (information on fraud prevention and reporting)

Similar Cases in the Region

Gladbeck and the neighboring city of Bottrop have experienced multiple incidents involving fake plumbers and water utility workers. Local police have increased vigilance in response to this trend and actively warn residents about these schemes.