A scam selling non-existent laptops has seen the public conned out of thousands of pounds.

Since October last year, 12 people have been approached by conmen offering to sell them computers and other electrical wares on the cheap.

They have been targeted in various parts of Edinburgh including Meadowbank, Cameron Toll, Leith, Portobello and Tollcross.

The two men claim to be looking for a quick sale to get cash to pay off bills. They take their victims to a car and show them fake paperwork before handing over a bag with the goods inside. However, when the bags are opened they contain cardboard and bottles of water.

Around £2500 has been stolen in these scams in the past four months.

Detective Sergeant John Graham 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."

Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.