Police warning over bogus bobbies calling at homes in South Yorkshire

Two men called at a house in Acre Road, Cudworth, Barnsley, at 11.10pm on Monday, claiming to be undercover police officers with a warrant to search the property.

When the men were told the householder planned to call South Yorkshire Police to confirm their identity they left.

It is believed the incident may be linked to one last Friday, where two men called at a house in Furnival Road, Doncaster, claiming to be detectives investigating burglaries in the area.

The occupant of the property called the police and the men left.

Detective Inspector Mark Monteiro, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “These incidents are concerning and we are keen to hear from anyone else who may have experienced a similar incident.

“The victims in each case have been suspicious enough to phone police and have not let these men enter their homes.

“This is to be applauded and I’d urge any homeowner who has concerns about an official at their door to make whatever checks they need to in order to feel safe and reassured.

“Remember to close and lock your door while you phone a company or organisation to check someone’s identity. This is entirely reasonable and if an official is legitimate, this should not cause them any issues.

“We are working hard to identify these two men and have carried out house-to-house enquiries in the local communities, as well as exploring any available CCTV footage.”

Witnesses, anyone with information about the incidents or anyone else who believes they may have been a victim should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.