Burglars posing as plain clothed police officers stole pension money and a handbag from pensioners in Margate.

Detectives from Kent Police are investigating two incidents earlier this month.

The first occurred on Wednesday, March 10, when an elderly resident returned home from shopping. As he was putting his car away in Cudham Gardens, Cliftonville, two men showed fake police badges and asked to talk about an alleged theft from him.

The pensioner allowed the men into his house and while one of the offenders went around the house pretending to check the security of doors and windows, the second man searched the property and stole the victim’s pension money.

Later that evening, an elderly woman was targeted in Trinity Square, Margate. She was at home at around 7.15pm who two men suddenly burst into her living room. When she challenged them, they told her they were police officers and continued to search her flat.

The men, who did not show any identification, stole her handbag containing cash and a number of CDs.

Det Insp Nick Greenan from Kent Police said: “These crimes are particularly unpleasant as they are preying on elderly and vulnerable members of our community.

“Never let anyone into your house that you don’t know or aren’t expecting. Genuine visitors will be more than happy to provide identification and remain outside while you verify it with their company and the police.”

Det Insp Greenan urged residents to use a door chain or door bars when answering the door to callers and to ensure that back doors are kept locked.
In both burglaries on March 10, the offenders were described as being white men, around 6ft tall with a thin build and aged between 30 and 50-years-old. They spoke with a local southern accent.

The first offender wore a black flat cap and a brown cardigan and was said to be scruffy looking. The second man wore a black waist length coat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Sgt Claire Munday at Margate police station on 01843 222044 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.