Fake delivery men rob woman in her home in Schaerbeek

Two fake parcel deliverers robbed a woman at her home in Schaerbeek last week, Bruzz reports. After pushing their way into the house, the fake delivery men locked her in a room before running off with a safe. A video of the crime, which was recorded by a CCTV camera in the woman’s home, has since gone viral on social media

The events took place on Monday of last week around 11.15. Two men disguised as UPS couriers, wearing caps and face masks, rang the victim's doorbell and threatened her with a firearm when she opened the door.

Once the perpetrators were inside, they demanded access to the safe, after which they locked the victim in a room and fled. She was then able to notify the police. Officers, including forensics experts, arrived at the scene. As well as the images captured by the woman’s own security camera, pictures from surveillance cameras from the area will also be analysed, according to the Brussels public prosecutor's office.

For local police at the Brussels North zone, this method of robbery is not new. "These ones have posed as fake parcel deliverers, but previously perpetrators have also posed as employees of telecoms or utilities companies, as postmen or bank clerks, and even as police officers," a spokesperson said.

"By putting on a uniform, they try to gain the trust of the victim. Often, they strike older people who live alone. That is why we recommend that you always ask for the identity card of the delivery person, policeman, postman or other employee who presents himself in this way."

"Don't let anyone in, unless you have an appointment, or the courier company has notified you that a package will be delivered. If in doubt, call the company whose so-called employee visits you. And it is best not to pay postage or customs costs via a bank terminal that is offered to you at the front door."