POLICE are asking the public to “be patient” as they prioritise certain crimes during the coronavirus pandemic.

As the UK has gone into “lock down” to reduce the spread of the virus, Hampshire Constabulary said its officers are still responding to all types of crime, and will still arrest people, however it is risk assessing all calls made and prioritising certain crimes.

Priority will be given to public order, situations of violence or where life is in dancer and when a vulnerable person is involved.

The force has asked the public to therefore be patient, as it may take longer to follow up any reports relating to lower level crimes.

Hampshire Constabulary has also issued advice regarding fraudsters exploiting elderly people and the most vulnerable during the coronavirus pandemic, through a series of email and telephone scams.

They advised: “If something seems too good to be true, the likelihood is that it probably is.

“Please watch out for scam messages. Don’t click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails, and never respond to unsolicited messages and calls that ask for your personal or financial details.

“Likewise, if you’re making an online purchase from a company or person you don’t know and trust, carry out some research first, and ask a friend or family member for advice before completing the purchase. If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, use a credit card if you have one, as most major credit card providers insure online purchases.

“Above all else, please remain vigilant and stay safe.”

To find out more about the latest Coronavirus-related scams, or for more advice, please visit the Action Fraud website.