VULNERABLE elderly residents are being targeted by ‘disgraceful’ cold callers who are posing as police officers and demanding money.

The warning has gone out to people throughout East Lancashire but officers said they have received five reports in the Ribble Valley this month of scammers targeting elderly victims for cash.

On each occasion the victim has received a phone call from a man claiming to be from the police. The ‘officer’ has told the victim a relative has been arrested and money is required to move on the investigation.

The victims are told to call 101 to check the validity of the call. When they call, suspiciously they do not hear a ring tone.

The ‘officer’ answers, with arrangements made for the victim to be taken to a bank and the money withdrawn.

Fortunately on each occasion no money has been exchanged.

No arrests have been made so far but police are warning people to remain vigilant. PC Derek Mitchell said: “The behaviour of these fraudsters is clearly very concerning.

“The police will never contact you directly demanding money to help progress an investigation. If you receive a cold call of this nature, hang up immediately.

“Fortunately on each occasion the fraudsters have not obtained any money, having initially demanded thousands of pounds. On one occasion a resident was collected in a black BMW car before being returned home. Enquiries are ongoing to locate this vehicle.

Ribble Valley council leader Cllr Ken Hind who worked in the legal profession for 40 years, said: “It is playing on fear. People who are vulnerable would potentially give way to that and possibly pay them.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or email 19@lancashire.pnn.police.uk”