You can't kid a kidder

What is the origin and meaning of the oxymoronic phrase "can't fool the fool" if any?

it is a variation on the idea of the "poacher turned game-keeper" idea or "set a thief to catch a thief" - i.e. that somebody who is dishonest can spot and catch out another one. it is the opposite of 'honour amongst thieves', I suppose.

L

"You can't con the con" is the one I've heard. Pamela