BOGUS police detectives have scammed two people in Orpington out of a total of £12,000.

The fraudsters have pretended they are detectives working on a Bromley-wide operation and need the funds to tackle criminals.

They appear to be targeting elderly people.

Two incidents have been recorded in the past week where a fake officer phones the victim to say they are trying to catch crooks but need help from the public to do so.

They know the victim’s surname, which makes their call appear more believable, and claim the money will be marked with a special dye.

These bogus police detectives have subsequently collected large amounts of cash from the people’s houses and even give a reference number to make the scam seem more convincing.

In one of the cases, they even showed a fake ID similar to an officer’s warrant card.

Victims are told the money is being safely stored at Orpington police station, in The Walnuts.

One of the suspects is described as in his 30s, approximately 6ft tall, with olive skin, dark brown hair, and stubble. He is reported to be wearing a grey tracksuit with trainers.

A second suspect has simply been described as a black man.

Both incidents have taken place in Orpington and so far two victims have handed over a total of £12,000.

Chief Inspector Katrina Smith said: "We don't ask members of the public to provide us with money in order to assist with our investigations.

"Please be extra vigilant and do not hand any money to anyone; it does not matter if they say they are from the police or if they say that they are working with detectives. Do not hand over any cash."

"It appears that the scammers are targeting elderly people and pensioners.

"If you have an elderly relative or friend, please make them aware of this scam and ensure that they do not hand over any cash to strangers under any circumstances."

Bromley CID is investigating.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Constable James Coldham, Bromley CID on 020 8284 8783 or 020 8284 8785.