A bogus caller tricked his way in to the home of an elderly Braintree couple and made off with £65 in what police describe as a callous act.
The smartly dressed man called at the couple's home in Bartram Avenue, Braintree, yesterday, claiming he had come to check the gas, and made off with money from a purse.
A police spokesman said today: "Essex Police would like to say this is a callous act specifically targeted against vulnerable elderly persons and we will be making every effort to find the person responsible."
The spokesman said the man said he had come to check the gas.
"He went off towards Coggeshall Road. They later found that the writing bureau had been broken into but nothing has been stolen."
Police have described the caller as white, aged about 30, clean shaven, of slim build, wearing dark clothing and smartly dressed. He spoke with an Irish accent.
They also warned people to beware of anyone asking to check water or gas, to ask for identification.
Anyone with information is asked to call Braintree police on 01376 551312
Published Tuesday, May 20, 2003
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