A gang of teenagers targeted the homes of elderly residents after conning their way into a warden-controlled flats complex in Southend.

The gang members, including a girl, are thought to have gained entry to the flats in Salisbury Avenue after being let in by an unwitting resident.

The first burglary took place in an resident's home around 3pm on Monday when three people entered the flat.

Two elderly people had their flats burgled. Cash was stolen from both premises.

The group were in their late teens. The girl wore cropped trousers and had her hair in a pony tail.

One of the youths wore a hood over his head, and the other wore dark clothing, possibly a suit, and was around 6ft tall with short hair.

Anyone with information should contact Southend police on 01702 431212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Thursday, February 21, 2002