Residents urge to be cautious after spate of bogus workmen in Ayrshire area
Residents in Ayrshire are asked to be cautious after a spate of bogus workmen operating in the area.
Between June and September, four home owners in Ayrshire were defrauded by a man claiming to be a plumber. They handed over sums between £130 and £5540 for work that was not carried out. Officers are following a positive line of enquiry to trace the man responsible.
On Monday, 1 September, in Kilmaurs bogus workers attended at the home of a 71-year-old female and obtained money for gardening services which were substandard and never completed. Enquiries are ongoing.
On Thursday, 23 October, an 83-year-old woman in Bonnyton had a male claiming to be carrying out maintenance work at her door. She was robbed of her purse and phone and a 40-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection.
Chief Inspector Stuart Dougan said: “Targeting elderly people at home is a despicable crime and our enquiries are ongoing to these incidents.
"In recent weeks, we have seen around one report each week of a bogus workmen attending and trying to obtain money from often elderly members of the community.
"This type of offending is often under reported with residents fearful or embarrassed to tell their family or police. I want to reassure the community that there is nothing to be ashamed of, these individuals are experts at manipulation and can apply incredible pressure to get what they want.
"Be suspicious of anyone arriving unannounced at your door. Householders should ensure that doors are secure, even when at home and use a door chain. Do not let anyone in until you are certain of who they are, or who they claim to represent.
"Neighbours should look out for one another – particularly if they have elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Report any suspicious activity to police, we take all reports very seriously and will investigate them fully. It is important that you do not hand over significant amounts of money on the promise of work being carried out in the future”
