Two men and one teenager have been arrested on suspicion of fraud after 28 people were duped into handing over cash following a spate of locksmith cons.

A 28-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy from Hersham were arrested with a 37-year-old from Surbiton after numerous incidents were reported of a conman asking to borrow money to pay for a locksmith.

The men and the teenager were arrested between the late hours of Wednesday, September 23 and the early hours of the next day.

Many of those who have been targeted were elderly and vulnerable, according to officers from Surrey Police.

Around 28 people have been conned so far, however there are further reports of unsuccessful attempts.

Detective sergeant Steve Richardson said: “Offences have taken place over the last month in Weybridge, Esher, Hersham and Epsom, and further enquiries have revealed that the scam is also being used in the London area, and we are working with our Met colleagues to look at patterns of offending and try to identify those responsible.

"While our investigation continues, we would urge residents to remain vigilant and never to hand over any money to people who just show up on their doorstep or even approach them in the street or a car park, no matter how plausible or heart-wrenching the story is.”

The men and teenager are due back on bail on December 5.

Officers also urge residents to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour in their area and to report any sightings to Surrey Police on 101, or alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.