A man has been arrested and charged with bogus workmen offences which occurred between August and September when two properties in Hillpark Avenue and Hayfield were targeted by individuals who claimed both addresses required extensive repair work.
The victims, who are all in their eighties, were each defrauded of several thousands of pounds during repeat visits and were taken to their local bank branches to withdraw cash.
A 52-year-old man is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today (Monday 5 October), while a 39-year-old man has been reported for warrant.
Detective Inspector Stuart Harkness said: “Bogus workmen and doorstep criminals target the vulnerable members of our communities, defrauding them of large sums of cash and leaving them in fear.
“We will not tolerate such offences and as part of a national approach in the form of Operation Monarda we are working closely with partner agencies to target those involved and highlight awareness amongst the communities that we police.
“Edinburgh Division have a dedicated Bogus Doorstep Caller unit who work closely with the City of Edinburgh Council Trading Standards department on a daily basis to target those involved.
“If anyone has information in relation to doorstep crime or witnesses any suspicious activity around the home of a relative, friend or neighbour then please contact police immediately.”
Councillor Cammy Day, Community Safety Leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Bogus callers prey on vulnerable people and our Trading Standards team works closely with Police Scotland to target this unacceptable behaviour.
“I would encourage residents to use schemes such as the Council’s Trusted Trader initiative if they need jobs done at home, and to report any suspicious activity to the police.”
Useful advice on protecting yourself from bogus callers is available by speaking to local officers, contacting 101 or on our website at www.scotland.police.uk
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
