Police are hunting two ‘despicable’ distraction burglars who tried to steal an Alzheimer’s sufferer’s life savings.
The two men arrived at the 77-year-old’s home in Tatsfield, Surrey and told him they were builders who needed payment for work which was never carried out.
They then took £150 from his wallet before taking him from his home to withdraw his savings from his bank account.
Police are hunting these two men who stole a 77-year-old Alzheimer’s sufferer’s life savings
A neighbour became suspicious and tried to interrupt the crime, but, despite his attempts to detain one of the men, they managed to get away in a black Audi A3.
Detective Constable Ben Briselden from Bromley Burglary Squad said: ‘This is a despicable and cowardly crime targeting an elderly man trying to steal his life savings.’
Police have now released CCTV images of the two men they are trying to find following the burglary on at 2:50pm on October 12.
The first suspect is described as an Indian man with short dark hair wearing grey tracksuit bottoms and top with a black Nike Air tick logo across his chest.
The second suspect is described as an Indian or Sri Lankan man with short black hair in a bun wearing dark clothing and a thin scarf around his neck.
Detective Constable Briselden added: ‘We are appealing for information from anyone who recognises the images of the two suspects shown in the footage.
‘If anyone has experienced something similar to this we would urge them to come forward.
‘I can personally assure you that all information received will be treated in the strictest of confidence and immediately acted upon.’
Police are reminding people to always verify the identity of anyone that comes to their door.
A spokesman said: ‘If they are genuine then they will be able to provide identification. If in doubt do not let them in and call 999.’
Anyone that can assist police is urged to contact the police non-emergency number 101, or by tweeting @MetCC. To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.