Police are investigating after a burglar conned his way into an elderly man’s house while posing as a police officer.

The victim, aged in his 70s reported that at a man dressed as a police officer came to his address in Church Field at Riverhead around 6:20pm on Thursday, October 9.

He claimed the victim had used forged bank notes in a local shop and that the ‘officer’ was there to seize any other notes that the man had.

The suspect went into the house with the elderly man who handed over £280.

He is described as being a slim white man aged in his 50s, with black hair, glasses and approximately 5ft 7in tall.

Officers are now appealing for the public’s help in identifying the suspect, and are urging people to take caution and to not be afraid to clarify identity of any caller before allowing them into their home.

Police constable Pat McCartan from Kent Police said: "If a police officer calls at your door he or she will be more than happy to provide proof of identification and will have no problem waiting while you verify who they are by calling the police control room.

"Fortunately in this case the victim was not harmed in any way, but we would very much like to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious or who has any information that will help us identify the person responsible."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC McCartan by calling 01622 604225. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, quoting crime reference YY/20507/14.