POLICE are asking people to be vigilant after the theft of a warrant card belonging to a female officer.

During a burglary in Bexley on the evening of January 12, a handbag containing a police warrant card was stolen.

A Bexley police spokesman said: “There may be a temptation for this police identification to be used for criminal purpose.

“When anyone presents a warrant card the public are requested to check very carefully that the photo ID is that of the holder.

“If there is any doubt about the identity of the person presenting the credentials call 101 to get verification.

“In an emergency always call 999.

“All police officers, in uniform or in plain clothes will identify themselves and display a warrant card and it is important to pay attention to the photo ID.”

If you know anyone in possession of a warrant card who is not a serving police officer, call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.