Three people have been arrested following reports that a group of men impersonated police officers to steal from the homes of vulnerable people.

Kent Police received five reports between Sunday March 3 and Monday March 4 2019, each one one stating three men had knocked on doors around Dartford, claiming to be plain clothed police officers who were investigating a nearby burglary.

They are believed to have presented the victims with a fake warrant card before being allowed into the properties.

Numerous items are reported to have been stolen, including jewellery and bank cards.

Officers subsequently visited an address in Hackney during the early hours of Thursday, March 7, and arrested where three men aged 18, 21 and 42, all from Hackney, on suspicion of burglary.

All three have been released on bail until April 1.

Detective Sergeant Richard Taylor said: "If a person knocks on your door and claims to be a police officer, do not allow them into your home if you do not think they are genuine.

"Instead, take their details and contact 101 or 999.

"A genuine police officer will not mind calling back or visiting at a later date when you have had a chance to verify who they are."

Anyone with information about the above incidents can call Kent Police appeals line for Medway on 01634 792209 quoting crime reference XY/46/41046/19.

For advice about bogus callers and rogue traders click here.