Brent Police are warning people to be vigilant as bogus workmen are operating in the borough.

The police have received a number of reports of bogus callers and workmen targeting elderly people in Brent.

In one incident two men knocked on doors claiming to be working in the area.

They said they had noticed a problem with the pipes to the victim’s house and offered to repair them for a large fee.

The suspects are described as white men aged between 30 and 35-years-old.

They drive a builder’s van.

In another incident a couple knocked on the victim’s door asking if they needed any cleaning work done.

The victim refused and the next day the couple called again to ask if they had changed their mind.

The woman caller then said she felt unwell and needed a glass of water.

When the victim went to get one the couple entered the house and stole the victim’s property.

On this occasion the suspects were described as a white man and woman aged between 30 and 35-years-old.

PC Mike Dari from Brent Police said: “We would urge members of the public to be extra vigilant.

“If you see anything suspicious or have been approached by anyone of similar circumstances then contact your local police via 101 or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

“If there criminals are still in the area ring police immediately on 999.”

Police are advising people to check who is at the door before answering it, to put the chain on the door before opening it and to ask to see the caller’s identity card.