Thief poses as police officer wearing stab vest to steal cash from Tipton homeowner

The offender visited the property of a 68-year-old man in Manby Street stating he had come to collect some money that he was looking after for a neighbour.

The owner of the property then handed over the large quantity of cash to the man posing as a police officer and requested a receipt.

The suspect said he would go and fetch a receipt from the car, but then fled the scene. The victim attempted to chase after him – but fell over and was unable to catch him.

The burglary unfolded at around 7.20pm on Sunday, December 2.

The man is described as white, around 40-years-old, 5ft 11in tall and clean shaven. He was wearing a police uniform with black trousers, a black fleece and a stab vest with a black beanie hat with the word 'police'.

PC Martin Wynn, from West Midlands Police Force CID, said: "Genuine police officers will be able to produce a warrant card which includes a photograph.

"If in any doubt, call police to confirm that callers are actual officers. Don't let anyone in unless you are convinced they are genuine.

"Please take time to visit elderly neighbours and if you do witness anything suspicious, contact police straight away."

Anyone with information can call officers on 101 quoting crime reference number 20SW/280933L/18.

Alternatively, witnesses can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.