Residents in Epping Forest have been warned to remain vigilant after a series of distraction burglaries by a gang posing as police officers.

A group of men have reportedly committed a number of burglaries across the Basildon, Brentwood and Thurrock areas in recent weeks.

They carry fake but “very convincing” Essex Police ID cards and use them to trick and scam their way into vulnerable people’s homes with the intent to steal cash and valuables.

They have to date mainly targeted elderly females, but Epping Forest council has warned everyone is at risk.

The council advised residents not to open the door to anyone they do not know or are not expecting and to call the police to verify an officer’s identity before inviting them inside.

On Monday (January 23), a gang posing as police officers pulled a van driver over in North Weald, handcuffing him and pushing him down a ditch before stealing his vehicle.

It is not known whether the incident is connected to the spate of distraction burglaries across the county.

Anyone who suspects they have been visited by a bogus police officer is asked to call Essex Police on 101, or dial 999 if the situation is an emergency.