Bogus policeman distracted homeowner as second suspect raided home

A “significant” sum of money has been stolen from a house in Ayrshire after a bogus policeman distracted a homeowner.

The incident occurred in Dunlop around 9pm on Friday, when a 53-year-old man was approached by the first suspect at the door of his property, before pushing his way inside and claiming he was a police officer.

While the homeowner was distracted, a second suspect entered the property and made off with items from the house, including a “significant” sum of money.

The first suspect is described as male, wearing scruffy clothing, and carrying what looked like a radio or walkie talkie.

The second suspect is described as male, around 5ft 5” tall, wearing a black tracksuit, hat and trainers and coloured worker-style gloves.

The pair are believed to have been using a vehicle, which may have been a BMW 1 series.

Detective Inspector Stuart Dougan of Ayrshire CID said: “Although the man was not injured, a significant amount of money was taken, and it is vital we trace those responsible.

“These incidents are rare however the fact that one of the suspects impersonated a police officer to gain access to the property is concerning.

“We want to stress that if you receive a visit from police, please do ask for the officer’s details and which department they work for.

“We began a national roll-out of new identification cards, which feature an up-to-date picture of the officer, along with other key information and various security enhancements that make them extremely difficult to replicate.

“This roll-out was started in October 2021 and all police officers should be able to provide this identification when carrying out legitimate police business.

“If anyone has any information regarding this incident, or noticed this car driving in the area of Lugton Road, Dunlop last night, then we would urge you to get in touch with police.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police via 101, quoting incident number 4002 of Friday, February 11.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.