The scam has so far seen 12 people targeted across Edinburgh since October last year.

On each occasion the men approached their victims claiming they need to offload electrical items quickly to pay for essential bills.

After being taken to a nearby vehicle and agreeing a fee the con men would hand the buyer a bag, which they believed had their new goods inside.

However, when the bags were opened, only cardboard and bottles of water were inside.

Detective Sergeant John Graham, from Lothian and Borders Police, said: "These men appear very convincing and desperate for money to pay essential bills.

"The victims are shown fake documentation relating to the goods and leave confident that they have made a bargain purchase. They are then left devastated when they discover that they have been scammed and have parted with their money for nothing.

"Anyone who is approached in this manner should not attempt to buy any of the items offered and report the matter to police immediately. We would also ask anyone who can assist officers with their enquiries to trace these men to come forward."

Police said the incidents have been reported in various parts of the capital, including Meadowbank, Cameron Toll, Leith, Portobello and Tollcross.

Anyone with information should contact them on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.