BOGUS policeman tricked a disabled man into entering his house before stealing his gold and cash.

Details of the 'cowardly' distraction burglary, which happened at a house in Severalls Avenue, Chesham, were released by police today.

The victim, a vulnerable 34-year-old resident, let the three men into his home on Wednesday last week between 3.15pm and 4pm.

They told him they were policemen.

The offenders searched the house while he was downstairs and left.

They took two large 24 carat Asian gold bangles, three watches, other gold items and a substantial amount of cash.

The man was not hurt.

Designated Investigator Tina Scott, of Force CID Amersham, appealed for witnesses and information.

She said: “This was a cowardly crime, in which a vulnerable person was targeted.

“I urge people to verify the identity of strangers who call at their homes, either by asking to see their identity card or by calling the company or organisation they claim to be from and checking with them.

“A legitimate caller will never mind and will be happy to wait while you do this. If someone claims to be from the police, this can be verified by asking for their shoulder number and calling the 101 enquiry line to verify this.

“Never let someone into your home without doing this.”

Anyone with any information should contact Designated Investigator Tina Scott, of Force CID at Amersham police station, via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 101.

Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.