THE victims of an aggravated burglary, in which a 70-year-old man was brutally attacked in front of his panic-stricken wife, received a suspicious call shortly before the incident, the Review can reveal.

The pensioner was repeatedly struck over the head by three callous intruders as they robbed his home in Annables Lane, Kinsbourne Green, last Tuesday.

Officers investigating the horrific attack have today confirmed the elderly victims received a suspicious call the day before the burglary from someone claiming to be from Bedfordshire Police.

The victims were told it was a routine call and asked whether or not firearms were kept at the property.

Bedfordshire Police firearms unit has confirmed to investigating officers no calls of this type were made. The robbers broke into the huge property through a window before confronting the elderly man and his wife, demanding to know where the couple kept their safe shortly before 10pm last Tuesday. Following a search of the property, the elderly victims were subjected to a vicious attack, which left the male pensioner with a cracked rib as well as head and facial injuries.

He was taken by paramedics to Luton and Dunstable Hospital, but is now recovering at home. His wife escaped the assault unharmed.

Police said the gang escaped with jewellery and cash.

Two people arrested following the incident were released without charge.

The group were described as being in their thirties to forties and were wearing black clothes with black masks.

They were also described as having foreign accents – possibly of eastern European origin.

Investigating officer Gemma Badat said: “Incidents of this nature are extremely rare in this area and we are treating it very seriously. This was a cruel and callous crime and the couple who were in the property at the time were understandably very shaken up.

“I would like to speak to anyone who may have any information about this incident or who saw anyone in the area acting suspiciously at the time. Also if anyone is offered the described items for sale I would also like to hear from you.”

Anyone with information should contact PC Badat on the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222 citing crime reference number F2/09/1943.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Keep checking the Review for updates to this story.