A CONMAN claiming to be a police community support officer in order to gain access to elderly residents’ homes is operating in North Kent.

Police are warning all vulnerable and elderly residents in the area to be extra vigilant about letting strangers into their homes after a 78-year-old woman in Dartford had cash stolen by the bogus caller.

The victim was watching television at her home in Trevithick Drive at around 6.45pm on Saturday when the man knocked on her front door and told her that he had just seen two people run off from her garden.

He added that he had called police and they were on their way.

The victim let the man into her home but did not ask to see any identification. After he had gone, she realised cash she had hidden in her bedroom was missing.

Det Insp Simon Thompson is investigating the incident, and said: “We have now had two reported incidents this year in North Kent where someone posing as a police community support officer has tricked his elderly victims out of cash.

“I would urge people not to open their door to strangers. Never let anyone in without checking out their identification first and don’t be afraid to ask them to call back at an arranged time when a neighbour or family member can be around.”

The conman was aged 40 to 45, white, 5ft 10in tall and he had dark brown hair. He wore a dark long sleeved top and dark trousers.

Anyone with information is asked to call Det Insp Thompson at Gravesend police station on 01474 565131 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.