ESSEX Police are appealing for witnesses after burglars broke into an elderly woman’s home while she was attending her husband’s funeral.
Suspects forced open the front door of the property in Kent Close, Laindon, sometime between 10am and 9.30pm on Tuesday, December 1.
A messy search was made of the kitchen and bedrooms.
Items of jewellery were stolen along with bottles of spirits and it appears that the stolen items were taken from the home in a pine furniture drawer.
Investigating officer Temporary Dc Clive Hammond said: "Burglary is always a distressing crime, but this is even more appalling given the tragic circumstances.
"The victim and her family are understandably extremely distressed and grief-stricken.
"We are continuing our enquiries and I am keen to hear from any witnesses who saw what happened or anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time of the burglary, especially if they were carrying a pine furniture drawer.
"I am also keen to hear from anyone who finds such a drawer discarded in the area.”
Anyone with information is asked to call T/Dc Hammond at Basildon CID on 101.
Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org
