Residents are being warned to ignore claims made by a firm falsely claiming to be installing security alarms on behalf of the police.

Sussex Police and Trading Standards officials have been alerted that a company called Direct Response Security has been calling residents falsely suggesting the firm is working with Sussex Police.

The sales agent went on to claim that by signing a contract to have one of their alarms fitted, residents will have direct access to a nearby police patrol at all times.

The latest incident involved a resident in Battle who was contacted on Sunday.

Chief Inspector Martin Sims said: "We do not have an arrangement with alarm companies or any similar businesses.

"If a member of the public calls 999 or 101 they are responded to based on the seriousness of the emergency, not whether they have an alarm or not.

"Do not accept the claims of any company that suggests it is approved by or linked to Sussex Police. If you hear such claims, please report them to us."

If you are contacted, call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.

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