Pensioner targeted by bogus water worker
Police Scotland is appealing for witnesses and warning the public to be on their guard following a bogus caller incident in Kilwinning on Wednesday 9 December 2015.
Around 1145 hours on Wednesday 9 December 2015, an 82 year-old woman was within her home in Churchill Avenue, Kilwinning when she answered the door to a man claiming to be from a water company, and asking to carry out some checks in her home.
She allowed him entry to the house and he left a short time later with a three-figure sum of cash.
The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 8” in height with black hair. He was wearing a dark grey raincoat, dark coloured trousers and a shirt and tie.
Detective Constable Michael Grant of Saltcoats Police Office said today:
“This is a despicable individual who has preyed on a vulnerable woman. It is totally unacceptable to leave anyone feeling unsafe in their own home.
“There may be other people in the Kilwinning area who have been approached by this man, who haven’t come forward to police. If you have had someone at your door recently that you were unsure of, or if an elderly relative has informed you of an incident, I would like to hear from you.”
Anyone who can assist with this police investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
Police Scotland would remind anyone, and particularly the elderly members of our communities that if anyone comes to your door, always ask for identification. Always close and lock your door while you contact the company of the police in order to check that they are genuine, before allowing anyone access to your home. Always use a door chain to ensure they cannot gain entry until you are satisfied with their identity.