Warning after fraudster poses as police officer

Police have issued a warning after two people were targeted by a fraudster who claimed to work for "Leicester Police".

Leicestershire Police said two victims contacted the force on Tuesday to report being targeted by someone pretending to be a police officer.

The force said in the second incident a woman, who lives in the Abbey Ward area of Leicester, handed over a bank card and PIN number to the suspect at her address, which was later fraudulently used.

It added the suspect also attended her address a second time and took a number of items of her jewellery, stating "he would keep them safe at the police station in case she was burgled".

Courier fraud occurs when a fraudster contacts the victim claiming to be a police officer or bank official, the force said.

The fraudster, usually calling by phone, sounds plausible and may confirm the victim's name and address, basic information which could be obtained easily, police added.

Nicole McIntyre, from the force's economic crime unit, said: "While the courier fraud scam is one we are very familiar with, and is always one of concern, it is unusual that the suspect has returned to the address and also stolen jewellery.

"Suspects target elderly or vulnerable people and often sound genuine to gain the trust of the victims.

"Clearly, knowing the victim has already handed over her bank card and PIN, he has returned exploiting her vulnerability once more.

"We want to remind people that police or banks would not contact people in this way.

"If you get a call like this, hang up. If you get a visit at your door from someone claiming to be police officer and they need to take your bank card to trace any fraudulent transactions, do not hand over your card and close the door."

Listen to BBC Radio Leicester on Sounds and follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.