A RADLETT woman in her 90s has become the victim of a distraction burglary in her home, prompting the police to warn residents to be on the alert for suspicious callers.

A spokesman for Herts Police said two men wearing plain clothes gained access to the elderly woman’s property in The Avenue area of Radlett by claiming to be police officers on Friday June 15.

While inside they searched the house and took cash.

Detective Sergeant Mark Clawson from Operation Manhunt, a team dedicated to investigating distraction burglary, said the woman, in her early 90s, let the men into her home because she believed they were police officers.

He added: “These criminals will use any excuse to trick the victim into letting them into their home, preying on their vulnerability and good nature.

“I would urge people not to let anyone into their homes who they are not expecting. If a police officer comes to your door they will always show you their warrant card and you can always call us via the non-emergency number 101 to verify their identity if you are unsure.”