Fake officer steals OAP's savings

A 95-year-old woman has had her £9,000 life savings stolen by a man posing as a detective.

The 'officer' called at the woman's house in Stretford, Greater Manchester, at about 1610 BST on Wednesday.

He told her he was investigating a spate of robberies in the area and wanted to make sure she was keeping her valuables safe.

She told him everything was in order, but the man insisted he check her security box, where the money was kept.

To realise a stranger has been in your home is upsetting enough, but having her savings taken from her has left the victim totally devastated DS Vanessa Jardine

He then grabbed the cash and left the house, in Lonsdale Street, Gorse Hill.

The man was described as white, 5 ft 8 ins to 5 ft 9 ins tall, and slim. He is aged between 20 and 24, has mousey brown combed-back hair and wore a white Nike sweatshirt and dark trousers.

Detective Sergeant Vanessa Jardine, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "This was a despicable crime against an elderly and vulnerable woman.

"This man tricked his way into her home by posing as a police officer and earning her trust.

"To realise a stranger has been in your home is upsetting enough, but having her savings taken from her has left the victim totally devastated."

Ms Jardine also warned elderly people to never open the door to a stranger, unless they have legitimate identification, and not to keep large amounts of money in their homes.