MASKED men raided the homes of elderly men – one aged 97 – in three violent burglaries across Fenland in five days. A 97-year-old man was targeted in Leverington Road, Wisbech, as was a 72-year-old man in Station Road, Murrow. Raiders also posed as police

MASKED men raided the homes of elderly men - one aged 97 - in three violent burglaries across Fenland in five days.

A 97-year-old man was targeted in Leverington Road, Wisbech, as was a 72-year-old man in Station Road, Murrow.

Raiders also posed as police officers brandishing metal bars in the third burglary, at Stag's Holt near March.

Det Insp Mike Branston said: "These are despicable crimes committed against elderly and vulnerable people and we are keen to catch those responsible as soon as possible."

The most recent incident was in Murrow - yesterday just after 8pm. The victim was confronted in his bungalow by two men who wore dark clothing and white masks demanding money.

The men pushed him to the ground before taking items from the house. They then made off using a rear door. It is believed the men broke in through a bedroom window.

The 97-year-old man was targeted on Friday between 7.30pm and 8pm. Intruders forced their way into his pantry while he was watching TV.

They forced him to the ground and searched the house. It is not known if anything was stolen at this time and there are no further descriptions of the men.

The third incident, at Stag's Holt, happened at about 9.30pm on Wednesday. Three men forced their way in through a rear door of the isolated bungalow and confronted the victim who was watching TV in his living room.

One man remained with the victim whilst the other two men searched the property.

Two of the men claimed to be police officers and were brandishing metal bars. They wore black balaclavas and black clothing.

Police believe the raids may have been carried out by the same gang.

Det Insp Branston said: "I am appealing for anyone who saw something suspicious or out of the ordinary at any of these locations in the past few days to get in touch.

"If anyone has any information about who might be committing these cowardly crimes they should not hesitate to call police."

CONTACT: Det Insp Branston on 0345 456 4564, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.