Watch out for bogus workmen

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We highlighted information on Arcadia recently about serious organised crime and this includes bogus workmen. How do you spot them? They may tell those targeted urgent repairs need to be done to their home. These repairs may include things like roofing, general building work or guttering. The work is generally not needed and is frequently of a very poor standard or is not carried out at all.

The criminals involved are often very intimidating and persistent, and they will increase the price as the job progresses often accompanying the householder to their bank to obtain cash.

But what do you do if you or someone you know is targeted? As Detective Sergeant Brian Cumming explains: “If work is recommended by a cold caller, please say no thank you in the first instance. If you have concerns about repairs needed, approach reputable tradespeople who may have been recommended to you by neighbours, relatives or friends. Phone a local company to arrange for a quote.”

Top tips:

  • Never pay the full amount or a large deposit up front
  • If you do go ahead with work, always ask for a detailed receipt/invoice with the tradesman’s full address and telephone number on it.
  • Beware of those who will only accept cash or are prepared to ‘do a deal’ for cash.
  • Never accept any offers of a lift to the bank or building society to get money for paying for work done or yet to be done.
     

Further information is available on the following websites: 

http://www.aberdeenshirecommunitysafety.org.uk/police/bogus_callers.html

http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/uploads/general/A5_Distraction_Burglary_Leaflet.pdf

https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

 

If you have any information relating to this type of criminality please use the dionortheast@scotland.pnn.police.uk email address to inform Brian’s team. The intelligence gathered by Brian’s team can all contribute towards painting a bigger picture of what serious organised crime groups are up to across Aberdeenshire and ensuring further investigation takes place where necessary. All information provided will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Remember, however, if you see something that requires immediate police attendance, call 999 or continue to use 101 to report non-emergency issues.