Image of bogus policeman released in burglary inquiry

The burglar posed as a police officer

Police are looking for a man who posed as a police officer to steal from elderly victims in the Tandridge and Banstead areas of Surrey.

On two occasions the suspect told homeowners they had been burgled and he would show them the damage to their home. He then followed them inside.

On one occasion the suspect stole a large quantity of money.

Police have issued an e-fit of one suspect and said another suspect spoke with a slight Irish accent.

The first incident happened on 26 January in Sutton Lane, Banstead, when a man said he would show the owners, 83 and 84, damage done to their home.

Once inside, the suspect stole money from a chest of drawers.

Warrant cards

An e-fit has been released of the suspect who is described as mixed race, about 40, stocky with short dark hair. He was wearing a dark grey and white jacket.

On 31 January a man told the same story to a couple in Caterham.

The suspect followed the man, 80, into the house in Harestone Valley Road, but the woman, 78, told the suspect to leave.

The suspect in the second incident is described as a white man, of average build, approximately 5ft 6ins (1.7m) tall, with short brown hair.

He is aged approximately 45, has a round face and was softly spoken with an Irish lilt.

He was wearing a dark-coloured long-sleeve T-shirt which had white writing on the front and dark-coloured trousers.

Acting Det Sgt Lee Pocock said: "Police officers always carry their warrant cards with them to prove who they are.

"When you believe you have been a victim of crime, it may be easy to forget to ask for identification, but it is so important elderly and vulnerable residents remain vigilant at all times."