Warning over 'sinister' police phone call scam

Police appealed for any further victims of the scam to come forward

A warning has been issued by a police force after a series of "brazen and sinister" scam calls from people claiming to be police officers have targeted elderly residents in part of Nottinghamshire.

The force said the victims, who live in the Retford area, were contacted by a person who said they were an officer.

The caller then tried to get their confidence with general conversation before asking for money or financial details.

The force urged people to be on their guard and a spokesperson said officers would never ask for such details.

The force did not reveal how many people were contacted or if any money was taken.

Det Sgt Tara Clapperton said: "This appears to be a brazen and sinister scam committed by an individual or individuals who can expect a visit in the near future from a real police officer.

"No genuine officer would ever ask for financial details for money over the phone, so anyone receiving such a call should contact us without delay.

"Our investigation into these incidents is ongoing."