Ben Kendall RESIDENTS across Norfolk are being encouraged to check the identity of all officials calling at their home following a spate of incidents involving bogus police officers attempting to commit crime.

Ben Kendall

RESIDENTS across Norfolk are being encouraged to check the identity of all officials calling at their home following a spate of incidents involving bogus police officers attempting to commit crime.

Suspects have called at properties in areas including Norwich, King's Lynn, Great Yarmouth and Thetford in recent weeks claiming they are there to carry out checks ranging from examining cash, highlighting a new police device or checking security locks.

In most cases they have left empty handed but they have succeeded in making off with cash and valuables on a number of occasions.

A spokesman for Norfolk police said that on no occasion would an officer or member of staff come to your home unannounced or check the security of your home and its contents without making an appointment.

“If there is a requirement to discuss this type of issue appointments are made for a time that is suitable for everyone concerned,” he said.

“If you have a visit from someone who claims that they are from the police please check their details. Obtain as much detail as possible, leave them on your doorstep and feel confident enough to question them.”

Det Sgt Pete Jessop, from the Operation Radar unit which investigates rogue traders and bogus callers said: “Pretending to be a police officer is an offence.

“Abusing peoples' trust to gain entry into their homes to commit crime makes this all the more serious. Genuine uniformed or plain clothes police officers or staff will not mind you checking their identity - in fact, they will actively encourage it.

“If you know someone who might be vulnerable, please ensure you tell them to carry out the necessary checks first.”

Anyone needing to check the identity of a police officer should contact Norfolk police on 0845 4564567 with their name and identity number.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have been approached in a similar manner. Contact Norfolk Constabulary on 0845 456 4567 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.