Distraction burglar dupes victim by pretending to be a police officer

Elderly residents are being warned to be on their guard after a 91-year-old woman was targeted by a distraction burglar.

The cowardly crook duped his way into his victim’s home in Hardinge Road, Harlesden, by claiming to be a police officer.

Once inside he asked her to show him where she kept her money as he needed to check the cash was correct.

He stole the cash leaving his victim in a confused state.

The suspect is a white man, aged between 45-50, he has black receding hair and was wearing a black smart suit, white shirt and black tie.

PC Daniela Biagini from Brent Police said: “Most callers are genuine, but some aren’t. Burglars won’t go to the trouble of breaking in if they can just knock on the door and be invited in.

“So always be on your guard when unexpected visitors - men, women or even children - turn up at your door.

“This is very distressing for an elderly person I urge anyone with any information to contact me on 0208 733 3227 or call crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”