A 96-YEAR-old dementia sufferer has been assaulted and robbed in his own home.
The victim answered the door at his home in Leith, Edinburgh, on Monday afternoon and was pushed to the ground.
The attacker then stole what police described as a “two-figure sum” from his wallet.
Neighbours rushed to help the man and called the police.
The suspect is described as white and wearing a red top.
Police Scotland are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Detective Constable Joe Perkins said: “Fortunately, the elderly victim was not injured as a result of this incident.
“Nevertheless, he was left deeply upset after being robbed in his own home.
“We are keen to hear from local residents and members of the public who were in Lochend Avenue on Monday evening and remember seeing anything suspicious, or who can help us trace the male responsible.
“Similarly, anyone with any other information relating to this investigation is also asked to contact police immediately.”
Next door neighbour Hazel Ritchie, 44 said: “I’ve lived here for 12 years and in shocked at what’s happened.
“I work abroad a lot so I always worry about him because he has dementia.
Pride
“He takes a lot of pride in his garden, and he sits outside with his garden.
“Whoever knocked on his door must have known he was old and vulnerable.”
Another neighbour of the victim, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of becoming a target himself, said the OAP was shouting for the police.
“I went across the street to see what was going on and he said he had been robbed.
“He told me that he answered the door and this man was stood there mumbling. He thought he needed help so said he would go and get his hearing aid.
“Next thing this man barged past him, knocking him to the ground. He said he tried to wrestle with him but he was too strong and took his wallet then ran off.
“His arm got twisted in the attack and he said it was hurting him a little.
“The only family member I know of is his stepson and he comes every morning to visit.”
“Whoever did it must have known that he would be at home and was on his own.
“I hope the police find whoever did it, it’s a terrible thing to happen.
