Bogus police officers forced their way into an 81-year-old’s home and stole collectable coins.
Two men banged on the victim’s back door, off Stubbs Lane, Braintree, at around 4.40pm on September 24.
One shouted they were from the police, but when asked for ID forced their way into his home saying they were seizing his computer and camera.
When told the victim had neither, one stood watch while the other searched the home.
A blue zipped men’s shoulder bag was stolen containing four limited-edition First World War commemorative gold coins, four gold sovereigns in plastic wallets, eight silver half crown Victorian coins and a 14-inch gold chain with a tusk-shaped pendant.
The first suspect was white, about 5ft 11ins tall, aged about 21 and of slim build. He wore a dark grey jacket, zipped and covering the lower part of his face.
The second was white, had a tanned ruddy complexion, and was about 5ft 8ins tall. He was aged about 27, of stocky build and had brown, chin length hair, and wore a dark blue or grey anorak.
Both had Essex accents.
Pc Red Leeson, of Braintree CID, said: “This was a frightening incident for the victim.
“I am keen to hear from anyone who saw these men in the area at the time of the incident, or has been offered the stolen items for sale.”
Anyone with information should call Braintree CID on 101.
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