Bogus workers dupe pensioner (82) into parting with cash

Oct 2 2008 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

A PENSIONER was duped into paying hundreds of pounds for work that was never even started.

The 82-year-old man, who lives in Merlin Avenue, Bellshill, was approached by two bogus workmen at about 4pm on last Thursday (September 25).

The crooks told the OAP that they would carry out work on his driveway.

They had plans to clean his driveway with a water pressure machine and had quoted him a substantial three-figure sum of cash for completing the job.

Police say the men then drove the old man to his bank at Main Street, Bellshill, where he withdrew the cash.

Once they dropped their victim back home, the conmen fled in a white van without carrying out the work.

The first crook is described as aged between 25 and 30, about 5ft 8ins tall with a stocky build and he spoke with an Irish accent, although that may not have been genuine.

The second conman was aged between 22 and 28, about 5ft. 6ins. tall of medium build and he also spoke with an Irish accent.

The conmen were driving a white van.

Anyone who has any further information on this incident is urged to contact Bellshill Police Office.

Police in North Lanarkshire are now warning the public to be on their guard against bogus workmen, and to become more vigilant.

Crimes involving thieves and conmen calling unannounced at doors are occurring regularly throughout the county and OAPs are often targeted.

Dougie Denholm, police crime reduction officer for the Wishaw area , said: “I would advise anyone NEVER to hand over any cash payment until they are genuinely satisfied with the work carried out.

“Reputable tradesmen and firms do not ask for cash up front for materials... and don’t tend to be ambiguous with their quotes or offer to run people to the bank in order to withdraw cash for payment.”

He continued: “The problems with bogus callers and bogus workmen have always been around, and the work being carried out by the North Lanarkshire Bogus Caller Task Force partnership has increased the awareness of such criminal activity.

“This increased awareness has resulted in more incidents being reported, and I would encourage all members of the public to report any suspicious activity in the area no matter how trivial it may seem to them.

“With British Summer Time ending soon and the clocks changing again, I would also ask the public to also look out for their neighbours, particularly the elderly and the vulnerable in our community.”