A HOUSE in Honeywell was forcefully entered by police after reports the tenant was a ‘victim of cuckooing’.

Cuckooing is a term used to describe vulnerable people being befriended by criminals with a view to exploiting them, often taking over their home.

On December 23, officers from Royston police station assisted Barnsley Council and Berneslai Homes staff to gain entry into a property on Honeywell Street.

PC Bev Frisby said: “The tenant was an alleged victim of cuckooing and as a result, has left the property.

“Partner agencies gained access to the property, locks were changed and a leak that was affecting another property has been fixed.

“Safety measures have been put in place and the tenant is now free to go back to the property.”

Coun Jenny Platts, cabinet spokesperson for communities, said: “We continue to work in partnership with South Yorkshire Police and Berneslai Homes to protect our most vulnerable people and to tackle this type of criminality.

“Cuckooing is where a person is taken advantage of by organised crime groups. Offenders target vulnerable people, often using violence to take over their homes.

“If you suspect somebody is a victim of cuckooing, please contact police on 101 or email safer@barnsley.gov.uk.”

A spokesperson from Berneslai Homes said: “Berneslai Homes confirmed that working in collaboration with key partners from South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council we have successfully addressed an ongoing housing management issue.

“The positive interventions that have been done helps ensure that estates across the borough are sustainable and demonstrates excellent partnership working.”