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 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 heard the front door open and as she went into the living room she was confronted by the suspect who claimed to be a police officer.

"The victim then 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.

‘‘Fortunately, the victim was uninjured in the incident but has been left shaken by what took place.

‘‘Any police officer wanting to speak to a member of the public will always show valid identification, including a warrant card, and would not enter a property in this manner.

"his kind of deception will not be tolerated and it's vital we identify this man.’’

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 at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kirklees District CID via: 101 and quoting crime reference number 131501062.