A BURGLAR claimed to be a police officer when confronted by a woman at the house he was raiding and struggled with her before fleeing on foot when she tried to call the West Yorkshire force to confirm his identity.

Officers have now released this e-fit image of the man they want to trace over the crime, which happened on March 16 in Cemetery Road, Heckmondwike, where the 26-year-old victim lives with her two children.

Detective Constable Cath Lowdon, of Kirklees District CID, said the woman was confronted by the suspect in her living room.

“The victim picked up the phone to call police and verify the man’s identity when a struggle ensued as the suspect tried to grab the phone before fleeing the property,” said Det Con Lowdon. “Any police officer wanting to speak to a member of the public will always show valid identification.’’ The suspect is described as a white, aged 20 to 30, 5ft 4ins tall, thin, with a bald head and babyish face. He was wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 131501062.