THREE elderly women have been targeted by bogus callers in the East End over just two days. A 79-year-old woman in Derbyshire Street, Bethnal Green fell victim on Tuesday last week when two white men claiming to be plumbers knocked at her door saying they

THREE elderly women have been targeted by bogus callers in the East End over just two days.

A 79-year-old woman in Derbyshire Street, Bethnal Green fell victim on Tuesday last week when two white men claiming to be plumbers knocked at her door saying they were fitting a washing machine in the upstairs flat which had started to leak.

While one man kept her talking the other searched the flat and stole cash.

The next day a 75-year-old woman in Malam Gardens, Poplar was targeted by four men posing as water board officials but challenged them before they were able to steal anything.

Later that day a 70-year-old woman in Ruston Street, Old Ford challenged two men posing as water board officials before they were able to steal from her

PC Mark Hixon from the Tower Hamlets Police Crime Prevention office said: "Distraction burglars prey on the most vulnerable members of our society. We are working with our partners to help and advise elderly residents, to reassure them and to prevent these crimes occurring."

Police are offering crime prevention advice to people who may become victims of bogus calling and distraction burglaries.

A spokes man said: "Always keep your door locked and never open the door to people without appointments, even on the chain.

"Ask to see identification, through the letterbox if need be and check the ID carefully as it is very easy to fake.

"If you are in any doubt, call the Police and tell the caller this."

More information is available from the Tower Hamlets Crime Prevention office on 020 8217 3770.