A BROTHER and sister were horrified when a bogus customer drove off with their £27,000 car advertised in Autotrader.

Ebru Alcin, 29, of Lower Hall Lane in Chingford, helped her brother, Ali, advertise his Range Rover Sport for in the car trading magazine and website.

A smartly-dressed man arranged to view the car on Sunday evening, but when 28-year-old Mr Alcin started the ignition to sound the engine, the bogus customer pulled the door shut and drove off.

Miss Alcin said she is worried many other victims will fall foul of this premeditated crime unless they are warned.

She said: “For two days I have been crying and not been able to work. We are worried he might come back. I could never imagine a man in his forties, looking so presentable would do this.

“It all happened very quickly. I was walking towards the door to see how they were doing but it happened in less than two minutes. The sort of person who could come alone and and drive off seems like a professional thief.

“We will get the money back from insurance, but it is really scary to think something like this could happen in daylight. Now we are telling all our friends and neighbours to be careful if they are selling a car.”

When the thief drove off, Mr Alcin realised the keys also had their house keys on it, so they had to change all the locks immediately. His wallet with his driving licence and credit card were also in the car.

Miss Alcin said the man had phoned in advanced and even put 'his wife' on the phone to sound genuine. He also asked whether it had a tracking device fitted.

They believe he must have checked the street out beforehand to ensure a fast getaway and that he may not have been working alone.

A police spokeswoman said: “The incident was reported at 19.48 on Sunday. The suspect got into the vehicle and immediately put the car into gear and drove up Lower Hall Lane in the direction of Hall Lane, turning right.

“Anyone with information can call the police non-emergency number on 0300 123 1212.”