A MAN whose elderly parents were targeted by burglars has said the police’s response was “out of order”.

Mo Tailor says men claiming to be British Gas engineers knocked on his parents’ door in Bowes Road, Bounds Green, on April 19 and said there had been a gas leak.

His parents, who are both in their 90s, refused to let them in, and when they did not go away called their son.

When the men failed to gain entry, they visited Mr Tailor’s uncle, also a pensioner, who lives around the corner on Lancaster Road, who let them in.

While one man distracted him in the kitchen, the other went up to his bedroom and stole cash and jewellery

Mr Tailor contacted the police, but was told to go and check on his parents himself, rather than sending an officer.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed they have begun an internal investigation into the case.

Mr Tailor, 64, said: “The men kept banging on the door, so mum called me and I called 999.

“They took my details, but did not send a police officer around – instead they just told me to go and check if they were okay.

“That is out of order, it was like they were not really interested.”

Mr Tailor, of Palmers Green, also said it had left his uncle “disturbed”.

He said it is not the first time his parents have been targeted, saying last year they were fooled and burgled by men pretending to be from “the water company”.

He said: “It seems like a coincidence two of my families’ homes were targeted, but this is worrying – anyone will do for these people.”

A statement from the Metropolitan Police said: “Following concerns raised via a local newspaper reporter about the response to two 999 calls made on April 19, an internal investigation has been started.

“That investigation will examine if the calls were effectively dealt with and the correct police response mobilised.

“The investigation will be carried out by specially trained staff within the Met Command and Control operational command unit.

“The original caller has been contacted and updated.”

British Gas urged customers to be careful someone unexpectedly knocks on their door and to always ask for ID.

Spokesperson Leigh Franks said: “Anyone concerned should ask to see official identification, and if the caller is claiming to be from British Gas, contact us to confirm if a visit is arranged.

“If they have any concerns they should contact the police immediately.”