Police target bogus callers

Dec 19 2012 by Nicola Findlay, East Kilbride News

Bogus workmen are being targeted in a police crackdown over the festive period.

Police, road traffic officers, trading standards and housing benefits officers have already carried out high-visibility mobile patrols on a street by street basis in order to identify offenders.

Anyone observed engaged in work or canvassing were spoken to by police and partner agencies resulting in several individuals receiving formal warnings and vehicle defect warnings.

PC Matt McCabe, East Kilbride community safety officer said: ‘Operation Rogue’ will be an ongoing initiative by Strathclyde police and their partner agencies to combat bogus workmen.

“The individuals who commit bogus crime predominantly prey on the most vulnerable members of our community.

“Often the victims are elderly and aged late 80s and 90s who may also suffer disability or infirmity.

“There is no excuse for this type of crime and the perpetrators who engage in these shameful acts will be dealt with robustly when identified.”

PC McCabe advises residents to never agree to work being carried out by any person who cold calls at your home.

Other advice includes, not answering your door to any one you cannot be sure is who the say they are. Also, keep all doors locked, even when at home as ‘sneak in’ thefts are common.

And never give bank card or credit card details to anyone over the phone or at your home, check with your local branch in person if you are called with this type of request.

PC McCabe also urged residents to take responsibility for ensuring the safety of vulnerable neighbours and friends, noting descriptions and calling police if they suspect anything untoward.

He added that it is also important to make yourself visible and ask a suspicious caller to a neighbouring address what they want.