Burglars posed as police officers to rob a pensioner of her savings.

Detectives are hunting the pair who conned the 84-year-old from Chadwell Heath into opening her door on the pretence of checking the security of her home.

The two men, one 6ft 2in, the other 5ft 8in, wore blue uniforms and flashed what appeared to be a police badge and ID card.

Barking and Dagenham acting borough commander Ch Supt Gary Buttercase said: “It is vital that we spread the word about these despicable thieves who prey on the trusting nature of our elderly and vulnerable residents.

“Police officers do not cold call on members of the public. If you are not expecting a caller, please don’t let them into your home.”

The burglary took place in Eagle Avenue at around 6.30pm on January 23.

A Met spokesman said: “Once inside the property, they asked where she kept her money. When she showed them, one man kept her busy while the other robbed her of her savings.”

The shorter man is between 25 and 35, stocky and has an English accent. The other burglar is between 30 and 40 and slim.

Anyone with information should call police on 020 3275 1045 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.