PSNI C District warning over bogus callers
20 Apr 2011
Police in C District, which covers Ards, Castlereagh, North Down and Downpatrick, are renewing their appeal for vigilance from householders when dealing with unexpected callers to our homes.
“Bogus callers depend on the good nature and good will of others. They tend to target the more vulnerable members of our society and in particular, older members of our community. It is always advisable to be cautious of unexpected callers,” said a spokesperson.
In one particular incident in C District, two men called at the home of a senior citizen and said they wanted to check her electricity meter. When they left, the woman’s handbag was missing. It’s believed the culprits made off in a Volkswagen Caddy van.
In another incident, a man knocked door and asked lady occupant if shewanted her hedge cut and was told no. Heleft but returned a short time laterasking ifshe needed anything removed from her rear garden. He walked down theside of the house and spoke with the victim in her rear garden. When the woman went back inside she noticed the front door open and approx £100 cash & a bank card missing from her purse. The second offender who had got inside the house hadn’t even been noticed.
Police are advising the community to take simple steps against bogus callers:
"If you have a peep hole or door security chain, use it. Always ask for ID. These individuals will sometimes offer a brief glimpse of an identity card in the hope that this will suffice. Don’t be fooled. Ask to see the card properly. If it's in a card holder, ask that they remove it so that you can examine it closely. And always check that the photograph matches the person on the doorstep. If you are unsure, telephone ‘Quick Check’ on 0800 013 22 90”
“Neighbours can also play a part in helping protect the more vulnerable in their community. Residents should try to look out for one another and report ALL suspicious activity to the police. The non emergency police number is 0845 600 8000. In an emergency dial 999.”
