Rogue traders accused of trying to fleece 88-year-old in Bishopbriggs

POLICE swooped on two suspected bogus callers after they allegedly stole from a pensioner . . . then came back for more.

Police say the pair told the 88-year-old man that his house needed extensive repairs.

They are then alleged to have taken money from the elderly man without carrying out any work, before organising to return the next day to pick up a further substantial sum of cash - which the alleged victim agreed to withdraw from his bank.

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But a suspicious member of the public passed their concerns on to the police, who set a trap for the men.

Uniformed police officers joined forces with their colleagues in CID, the road policing department and the dog branch for the operation.

A police helicopter was also brought in to ensure there was no escape for the suspects.

Chief Inspector Roddy Irvine, area commander for East Dunbartonshire, said: “This type of crime is especially unpleasant and is carried out by individuals who target the most vulnerable in our society.

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“In this instance, due to information provided by members of the public, the culprits were apprehended.

“Strathclyde Police will not tolerate this despicable type of crime and would like to reassure the public that we will do everything we can to track down those who are intent on deceiving the elderly and most vulnerable in our communities.”

The latest incident took place in Bishopbriggs, on Thursday, November 8.

Chief Inspector Irvine has urged members of the public to contact the police if they suspect bogus workmen or rogue traders are operating in their area, even if it’s just a nagging doubt that something might be amiss.

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He said: “As police, when we encounter a vulnerable person our first instinct is to help and protect them.

“Sadly, for some people the first instinct is to take advantage and steal from them.

“It’s important that people tell us if they see something suspicious.

“We take this type of crime very seriously and have officers dedicated to investigating it every single day.

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“If the person is legitimate no harm will be done - they’ll not mind a visit from the police as genuine businesses lose money to rogue traders as well.”

The Chief Inspector also called on people to apply common sense to stop becoming victims of crime over the winter - including not leaving items in their car, making sure sheds, garages and vehicles are secured at all times, and not leaving cars running unattended on cold mornings.

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