‘Roofers’ target vulnerable householders
Police in Edinburgh are urging people to be vigilant after elderly residents in the west of the city were targeted by bogus workmen last week.
On Thursday 31 March, two men called at addresses in Silverknowes Avenue, Tylers Acre Gardens and Broomhall Crescent, and at a house in Weavers Knowe Crescent in Currie and claimed that roofing work was required. The men then offered to carry out the work at highly inflated prices. The men were sent away.
On Friday 1 April, men of a similar description visited an address in Strathalmond Road, where they again claimed to the elderly occupier that roofing work was needed. The suspects then accompanied the 82-year-old man to the bank and persuaded him to hand over a four-figure sum for the work they claimed was required. The men then left without carrying out any work.
The first man is described as white, in his late 20s to early 30s, between 5 foot 6 and 5 foot 8 inches tall, of slim to average build with short dark brown or black hair and was wearing dark clothing.
The second man is described as white, in his 40s, between 5 foot 9 inches and 6 foot tall, of slim build with grey stubble or beard, sandy coloured hair and was of scruffy appearance wearing baggy khaki-type trousers.
Detective Inspector Grant Johnston of Gayfield CID said: “These two men are preying on vulnerable members of our community and together we need to be vigilant and stop them from targeting our friends, family and neighbours. I would appeal to people to please check on older friends and relatives and report any suspicious persons or vehicles. Such bogus workers have no scruples and even took their victim to the bank to withdraw cash which they immediately pocketed.
“Never allow cold callers into your home. If you want to check their credentials, genuine callers will be happy to wait outside a locked door whilst you call a number for their company from the phone book, or ask for them to return when there’s someone else with you. Ultimately you should not feel pressured to speak to them about unwanted services and products and it’s your right send them away. If you have any concerns please call police immediately.
“If you want work doing at your house, take recommendations and use a reputable trader. The City of Edinburgh Council runs a Trusted Trader scheme, more details can be found at www.trustedtrader.scot.”
Anyone with information about the two bogus workmen, or anyone concerned about rogue traders and cold callers should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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