Essex Police have launched an investigation into an attempted aggravated burglary in Benfleet, after two men posing as Deliveroo riders tried to force their way into a home on Downer Road. The incident, which took place shortly before 8.40pm on Sunday 5 July, was captured on doorbell camera footage that has since circulated widely on social media.
According to the footage, the two men initially presented themselves as delivery drivers dropping off an order, before attempting to push their way into the property. One of the men appeared to be carrying a tool during the attempt. The pair were pushed back by someone at the property before fleeing the scene without gaining entry.
Description of the suspects
Essex Police said the two men have been described as Black and spoke with Essex accents. Detectives have appealed to the public not to continue sharing the video footage online, warning that doing so risks identifying the victim’s address and causing further distress to those affected.
Deliveroo responds
Deliveroo has said that its genuine riders very rarely deliver in pairs, except in cases involving exceptionally large food or grocery orders. The company advised that if a resident has not placed an order themselves, it is highly unlikely a legitimate Deliveroo rider would be arriving at their door. After checking its own records, Deliveroo confirmed that no riders had been active in the area at the time of the incident, indicating the men were not acting on the company’s behalf.
The company also acknowledged that official Deliveroo clothing and equipment can be obtained through unofficial channels, making it possible for individuals with no connection to the company to impersonate its riders. Deliveroo said it is working with Essex Police to assist the investigation, and confirmed it had not yet received a direct report from the victim, encouraging them to get in touch with the company directly.
Police appeal for information
The investigation remains ongoing, and Essex Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and anyone with relevant information to come forward. Anyone with information can contact the force through its website or 24-hour online live chat service, quoting reference 42/105813/26, or by calling 101.
