ESSEX Police are appealing for witnesses following a distraction burglary in Harlow.

Three men knocked on a door in The Downs at around 10pm on Monday, October 24 claiming to be police officers looking for a ‘suspect’ who they had seen jumping into the back garden.

One of the men took the victim, a woman in her 60s, out to the garden, while the other men went upstairs to look for the ‘suspect’.

The men then left and the victim later found money, jewellery and important documents had been taken from upstairs bedrooms.

The first man is described as white, around 40 years-old, 6ft tall, of skinny build and with short dark hair.

The second man is described as white, of skinny build, around 5ft 7in tall with dark hair which was shaved at the sides and slightly longer on top.

The third man is described as white, of skinny build, around 5ft 7in tall with very short dark blonde hair.

All three men were wearing black trousers and black jackets.

Investigating officer Dc Joanna Snell said: “This was a callous crime committed by a group of heartless men, preying on a vulnerable victim.

“I would urge people to be alert to strangers knocking on their properties.

“Any officer, undercover or not, would always provide identification before entering a property.

“If someone you don’t know knocks at your door always ask for identification – all genuine callers will have ID and won’t mind you asking to see it.

“If you’re still not sure, ask them to come back another time and don’t feel pressured into letting someone into your home you don’t want there”.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Dc Snell at Harlow Police Station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.